the GM role

Steve says:

The word on the street is that the Leafs are looking to sign a "senior role" in management. They want someone like Muckler or Bowman to watch over JFJ. Bowman recently said "It's not going to happen",
( http://www.torontosun.com/Sports/Hockey/2007/06/26/4291013-sun.html)
which I think speaks volumes about what Bowman thinks of MLSE and what shape our organisation is in. That article is written by Steve Simmons though,...so read it with a grain of salt...he hates the Leafs....but some points do ring true of Peddie and MLSE.

If the Leafs can get Muckler I don't think that he will be happy giving "advice" to JFJ. I expect that if MLSE really wants Muckler, he will be offered JFJ's job.

Which I would support 100%

(...i think the phrase 110% is gaaay...)

Chris says:

It's always good to have experienced hockey men in your organization. To that end I think Muckler would be a big help for us.

What I don't like about the whole thing is how they're clearly positioning Muckler to be JFJ's replacement. How much does that suck if you're JFJ?

I'm not Ferguson's biggest fan. But I do think that he's getting a bit of a bum's rush.

His last two seasons as GM he didn't make it to the post season and in a hockey mad town like T.O. you're damn right that will potentially put your head on the chopping block. But realistically, has the man been given a fair shake?

His first time out of the gate he's still dealing with the effects of the Post Lockout NHL reality. Which means the Leafs are carrying more expensive aging vets then is good for any team.

And last year we had more injured man hours then any other team in the League. Considering we lost our spot in the playoffs by one freaking game, you can't tell me that's not significant.

Basically this is the year he has to shine. He's got the coach he wants and he's in the position to build the team he wants.

You have to let your GM do his job. You've got to respect him enough to let him suceed or fail under his own steam. MLSE isn't willing to do that. Between the one year extensions and shopping for his replacement, it's clear they've already made up their minds.

Steve says:

It seems to me that by creating the "Senior Management of Hockey" position, which has never been there before, MLSE is saying "well JFJ, here it is,...your shot...you do good this year and your job is secure, and the Senior position probably goes away (since it is an added expense to have a babysitter for you), BUT screw up again, and your goose is cooked and Muckler is poised to step in..."
However, this could totally backfire on them, if Muckler decides to retire after a year...assuming it all even happens in the first place...
it sucks to have someone breathing over your shoulder while trying to do your job, but if JFJ can prove that he is worthy of GM'ing the hallowed Leafs, then I bet we see Muckler cut loose after a year.