Real Kyper & Bourne Leafs' GM Process with Doug MacLean + Travis Green's Ullmark Defence
Apr 2, 2026
Doug MacLean, former NHL coach, GM and executive with decades in hockey, critiques Toronto’s front-office signals and outlines what a serious GM search should include. He discusses whether the Leafs need a deep retool, the balance between analytics and hockey experience, and coaching choices. Later segments cover Ottawa’s slump and Travis Green defending his goaltender amid podcast-fueled distractions.
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Audit The Whole Front Office Not Just The GM
- Look beyond the GM and coach; audit the entire front office and surrounding cast to build a strong organization.
- MacLean points to examples like Dallas, Florida, and St. Louis where experienced executives support success.
Culture Talk Won't Fix A Bad Roster
- Culture talk is hollow if the roster isn't good enough; MacLean says the Leafs are simply not a good team right now.
- He estimates only eight to ten players max should return, implying a substantial retool is needed.
Require A Realistic Plan From Candidates
- Candidates for the Leafs GM job should present a detailed, realistic plan for turning the team into a winner rather than just reciting past achievements.
- MacLean stresses data is a tool but wants a concrete playbook for a retool versus a rebuild.