The Toronto Maple Leafs have made a major leadership change by bringing in two high-profile names to reshape their hockey operations.

As part of a broad organizational reset aimed at improving long-term performance, the franchise has officially appointed Mats Sundin and John Chayka to front-office roles.

Mats Sundin, a former star athlete who played from 1989 to 2009, is one of the greatest players in Maple Leafs history. He will serve as Senior Executive Advisor, Hockey Operations.

In this position, he will help improve team culture, guide players and management, and support hockey operations. In simple terms, he will serve as both a mentor and an advisor.

Meanwhile, John Chayka, who was previously the general manager of the Arizona Coyotes, has been named the new General Manager of the Toronto Maple Leafs.

His responsibilities will include team building, overseeing trades and signings, and managing the roster. He will be the organization’s primary decision-maker on hockey matters.

Maple Leafs Sports and Entertainment President and CEO Keith Pelley welcomed both John Chayka and Mats Sundin, saying he believes their leadership will help build a stronger, championship-caliber team for the fans.

“I’m thrilled to welcome John and Mats to their roles, two great hockey minds that will strengthen our entire hockey club," Pelley said.

"From the start of this process, it’s been about building a championship-caliber team for our fans and our city and today is an important step towards that goal,” he added.

Sundin and Chayka share their vision for the Toronto Maple Leafs

After the appointment, both Mats Sundin and John Chayka spoke about their vision for the future.

Mats Sundin said he feels honored and wants to help the team achieve the success its fans deserve.

“This fan base deserves greatness and I am grateful for the opportunity to help this team, organization and city achieve that,” said Sundin.

He also expressed a deep connection to the team and the city. He said he will work closely with John to bring success to Toronto.

“My love for the Maple Leafs and the City of Toronto is an important part of who I am and who I will always be. I look forward to working closely with John as we both recognize the incredible opportunity and responsibility to win here in Toronto,” added Sundin.

John Chayka also said he is excited to work with Mats and the organization.

“I’m honored to join the Toronto Maple Leafs organization and excited to work alongside Mats and the entire organization,” said Chayka.

He said the team has a rich history and a passionate fan base, and he aims to build a competitive, winning squad.

“This is one of hockey’s most historic franchises, with a passionate fan base who want to win. I'm focused on building a team that is competitive, driven and relentless — one that is in the best position to win for our fans and for the City of Toronto,” he added.

The Toronto Maple Leafs finished the 2025–26 regular season in 9th place in the Eastern Conference Wild Card standings.

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Written by

Kapil Manghnani

Edited by

Sahil Prashar