In a surprising turn of events, Sheldon Keefe has returned to the Toronto Maple Leafs as an assistant coach, reuniting with the organization he once led as head coach. This move comes after Keefe’s recent tenure as the head coach of the New Jersey Devils.
Keefe’s Journey with the Maple Leafs
Sheldon Keefe initially took the helm of the Maple Leafs on November 20, 2019, replacing Mike Babcock. During his tenure, he led the team to a regular-season record of 212-97-40, ranking him fifth in coaching victories in franchise history. Under his guidance, the Maple Leafs reached the Stanley Cup Playoffs in each of his four seasons, achieving their first playoff series victory since 2004 by defeating the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 2023-24 season.
Despite these accomplishments, the team parted ways with Keefe on May 9, 2024, following a series of playoff disappointments. Shortly after, on May 23, 2024, Keefe was appointed as the head coach of the New Jersey Devils.
A Bittersweet Return to Toronto
Keefe’s return to Scotiabank Arena as the Devils’ head coach on January 16, 2025, was an emotional experience. The Maple Leafs honored him with a tribute video during the first TV timeout, acknowledging his contributions to the organization. Reflecting on the moment, Keefe expressed gratitude for the acknowledgment and his time in Toronto.
The Decision to Rejoin the Maple Leafs
The decision for Keefe to return to Toronto as an assistant coach was influenced by several factors. His familiarity with the team’s core players, including Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, and William Nylander, played a significant role. Additionally, his strong working relationship with General Manager Brad Treliving, who had previously extended Keefe’s contract through the 2025-26 season, facilitated this reunion.
Looking Ahead
As Keefe transitions into his new role, he is expected to focus on player development and special teams, areas where he has previously demonstrated expertise. His return aims to bolster the coaching staff’s depth and provide valuable insights as the Maple Leafs strive for postseason success.
The hockey community will be keenly observing how this reunion unfolds and its impact on the Maple Leafs’ performance in the remai
nder of the season.
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