The Maple Leafs just hired one of John Tavares’ mentors. Is this merely a coincidence or something more?
The John Tavares sweepstakes is nearly over. Leading up to NHL free agency, teams have been begging for his attention. Only six teams were granted permission to present Tavares and his agent. The Toronto Maple Leafs were one of them.
Because the Leafs are in Toronto, which is where Tavares is originally from, they are considered very strong suitors to sign him. On Thursday, the Leafs pulled off a seemingly small move, promoting several people.
This seems like nondescript news. However, it’s worth noting Wes Clark got re-hired by the Leafs.
Maybe it’s due to his ties to the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds and new Toronto GM Kyle Dubas.
Perhaps it’s because he’s one of the most respected hockey minds in the NHL.
Or maybe it’s because he is someone Tavares has called a mentor.
The timing on this is way too convenient. If this happened a few weeks ago, no one would bat an eye. But hiring someone who Tavares likes a whole lot just days before he can sign with the Leafs? That’s eyebrow-raising. Especially when you consider Clark and the Leafs didn’t part on the best of terms the first time around.
Has the NHL ever seen anything as loony as the Tavares sweepstakes? Certainly not in recent years. But you know what? This is good for the NHL. For the first time in a while, the period leading up to free agency has meant something. The Stanley Cup Playoffs have been over for over three weeks and people are still talking about hockey.
Next: 1 Reason Tavares Should Sign With Each Suitor
Tavares is expected to re-sign with the Islanders because elite players rarely leave their long-time team for free agency. But the Leafs have as good of a chance as anyone to pry the Isles captain away from the only franchise he has ever known. And if they do wind up doing so, their hiring of Clark likely played a significant role in it.