Could an NHL Team Be Gearing Up to Steal Kyle Dubas from Toronto?

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Wade Messier
March 15, 2023 (9:01 PM)

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It's been a tough few years for Toronto Maple Leafs fans. Their team seems to get better each year, and yet they're ultimately met with the same result time after time. Kyle Dubas has done his due diligence to assemble one of the strongest Maple Leaf rosters we've ever seen, but if it's not enough to get them out of the first round, what will happen?

What Could Another First Round Exit Mean For Dubas?

Since Dubas was named general manager in 2018, the Maple Leafs have failed to make it past the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs despite having some of the most talented players in the league, including Rocket Richard winner Auston Matthews. With his contract expiring this summer and no extension in place with the organization, Dubas was feeling the heat more than ever to build a team that could go far in the playoffs. The additions of Ryan O'Reilly, Jake McCabe, and Luke Schenn were just a few of the moves made in an attempt to bolster the Leafs roster, but what if it doesn't work out?

There's a very real possibility that if Toronto fails to make it past the first round of the playoffs this spring, Dubas' time in Toronto will come to an end. After all, something has to give when a team that talented fails to win year after year. In the event that Toronto and Dubas go their separate ways this summer, at least one team will have serious interest in bringing him aboard.

Is Philadelphia Preparing to Make an Offer to Dubas?

According to a reporter for Toronto Sports Media, if Dubas is available this off-season, the Philadelphia Flyers will be prepared to make a serious offer for his services. The organization recently fired general manager Chuck Fletcher after an abysmal trade deadline, and brought on Daniel Brière as their interim general manager. Despite Brière's history with the organization, some recent controversy surrounding his son and the prospect of Dubas being available for hire could sway Philadelphia's ownership in a different direction.

If Dubas becomes available this summer, plenty of teams will likely inquire about his services, but perhaps a promotion could entice him to sign in Philly. A role as the Vice-President of Hockey Operations would certainly be a step up from General Manager, and could provide Dubas with a new opportunity to build a team in his vision. If Toronto chooses not to re-sign Dubas this summer, it's very likely the Flyers will pursue his services.

As Seen On The Leafs Nation - The Flyers Might be Ready to Steal the Leafs' Front Office This Summer