NHL Rumors: Allvin Out, Maple Leafs Interview 2 New Names, and a Missed Toronto Trade – The Hockey Writers –

In today’s NHL rumors rundown, the Toronto Maple Leafs continue to conduct their search for a President of Hockey Ops and/or a general manager, and interviews are underway. Meanwhile, the Vancouver Canucks have reportedly made a major leadership change by parting ways with GM Patrik Allvin.

Could the Maple Leafs be linked to former legend and franchise icon Mats Sundin? Meanwhile, questions are emerging about past trade pursuits, including missed opportunities that may have shaped Toronto’s disappointing campaign.

Maple Leafs’ Missed Trade Targets and Deadline Inactivity

The Maple Leafs are being closely watched as the playoffs begin this weekend. Not only are they on the hunt for management, but there is talk of meaningful roster upgrades the team will make this summer and tried to make during the 2025-26 season.

According to The Athletic, the Leafs explored a deal for winger Yegor Chinakhov, even offering Nick Robertson in a potential package, but the discussions ultimately fell short. Chinakhov instead landed with the Pittsburgh Penguins and quickly thrived, producing 36 points in 43 games, adding further frustration for a Leafs team that couldn’t find its rhythm all season.

Mike Gillis Re-emerges in Maple Leafs GM Conversation

The Maple Leafs are also being linked to former Vancouver GM Mike Gillis, who has reportedly been interviewed as many as three times for a front office role. Gillis, known for advocating an “evidence-based” management approach, has been discussed internally, but it’s not entirely clear what job he would be given.

His philosophy aligns with modern analytics-driven thinking, and with Sunny Mehta having been hired by the New Jersey Devils, one of Toronto’s top targets is off the board. Still, questions remain about why Gillis has not secured an NHL GM role in recent years.

Mats Sundin Linked to Potential Maple Leafs Front Office Role

Another interesting report indicates the Maple Leafs have met with franchise legend Mats Sundin about a potential role in the hockey operations department. While no formal title has been confirmed, NHL insider Chris Johnston is reporting discussions involve a possible advisory or vice president position.

Sundin, who captained the Maple Leafs for 11 seasons and remains the franchise’s all-time leader in points, is widely regarded as one of the most important figures in team history. His leadership credentials and deep connection to the organization make him a natural candidate as Toronto considers reshaping its front office structure.

There will be those opposed to the idea, given his lack of executive experience.

Canucks Fire Patrik Allvin Amid Organizational Questions

The Vancouver Canucks have dismissed general manager Patrik Allvin.

Jim Rutherford, President, Hockey Operations, released the following statement:

“I would like to thank Patrik for all his hard work over the past four seasons. Under his guidance, we have accumulated a lot of good young talent, and he has helped us lay the foundation of our rebuild. This season was disappointing for everyone in the organization, and we understand how frustrating it was for those who care about the team. Moving forward our goal will be to continue to bring in younger players who can grow together with our current group and form our next competitive core.” The move comes after a turbulent season that saw Vancouver near the bottom of the NHL standings and struggling to find stability on and off the ice.”

Allvin, who became the NHL’s first Swedish-born GM, had been with the organization since 2022. However, his tenure was frequently viewed around the league as lacking full autonomy, with Rutherford believed to have remained the primary decision-maker on major roster moves. Reports also suggest Allvin was not directly responsible for key transactions, including high-profile trades involving franchise cornerstone Quinn Hughes.

The Canucks are now expected to pivot toward a new direction as they consider how to rebuild their hockey operations.