Toronto Maple Leafs name John Chayka GM and Mats Sundin senior adviser

The Toronto Maple Leafs announced a new front‑office structure on Monday, appointing former Arizona Coyotes executive John Chayka as general manager and franchise legend Mats Sundin as senior executive adviser of hockey operations. The hires come as the team seeks to rebound after missing the playoffs for the first time in a decade.

Sundin described the role as a “dream” and emphasized his love for the organization and its fans, while Chayka pledged to build a competitive, relentless team. The press conference featured sharp questioning from Toronto Sun reporter Steve Simmons, who called Chayka a “con artist” and highlighted that the majority of NHL insiders he consulted were critical of the hire. Fans on social media echoed the criticism, labeling the appointment a “nostalgia mask” and predicting it could set the Leafs back years.

Chayka’s background includes a brief, controversial tenure as Coyotes GM and a suspension for breaching contractual obligations. Despite the backlash, the organization’s leadership, including MLSE CEO Keith Pelley, defended the decision, stating Chayka will report to Pelley with Sundin’s input. The hires mark a significant shift in the Maple Leafs’ management strategy as they aim to restore competitiveness.