Here’s the latest on Maple Leafs GM candidates based on recent reporting:
- The Leafs have narrowed their GM search to a handful of finalists, with multiple outlets noting names like Evan Gold (Bruins assistant GM) and Ryan Martin (Rangers assistant GM) among the leading contenders, and discussion of others still in the mix.[2][5]
- Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman indicated the group had been down to three candidates (Martin, White, and Chayka, with Chayka later identified as a likely finalist) and that in-person interviews had taken place, though no final decision had been announced as of late April 2026.[5]
- Other outlets have suggested internal candidates and a mix of external options, including Hayley Wickenheiser as a noteworthy internal contender being discussed in some circles, though her status as a frontrunner varies per report.[1]
- A few reports also mentioned a potential wild-card or third candidate and noted that the Leafs have been surveying talent from both rival organizations and within their own system.[3][7]
If you’d like, I can:
- Compile a concise, sourced timeline of each candidate’s interviews and reported status.
- Create a quick side-by-side summary table of candidates, org of origin, and current status.
- Pull the latest direct quotes from the 32 Thoughts episodes or Sportsnet pieces for precise wording.
Sources
The Toronto Maple Leafs fell apart in the 2025-26 season and it appears they are going into a major retooling as they take stock of their disastrous year.
www.yardbarker.comAs we approach the one-month mark since the Toronto Maple Leafs fired general manager Brad Treliving, anticipation around who they will hire next has only grown.
www.sportsnet.caThe finalists come from two from rival teams, with one wild card still in the mix
www.hockeyfeed.comThe Toronto Maple Leafs may not be in the Stanley Cup Playoffs this season. Still, as the center of the hockey universe, the Maple Leafs general manager search might be the most talked-about topic leading into the most important time of the year.
www.yardbarker.comTSN's Darren Dreger reports that it was suggested to him on Thursday that Toronto could hire just a general manager.
thehockeynews.comThe Toronto Maple Leafs need a new GM after firing Brad Treliving. Who would be best to run the Buds?
thehockeynews.comThe Toronto Maple Leafs are down to their final four general manager candidates after embarking on a wide search for the team's new GM.
heavy.comA notable insider stoked the fire of Toronto Maple Leafs rumors regarding the search for the organization's new GM.
heavy.com