The Arizona Coyotes relieved general manager Don Maloney of his duties on Monday, opting to go all-in on an analytical approach. Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reported the Coyotes would hand over more personnel control to 26-year-old assistant GM John Chayka, but said he doesn’t think Chayka will take over as GM. The big question remains: Who will take over the Coyotes GM vacancy? Friedman reported Arizona had expressed interest in Leafs assistant GM Kyle Dubas.
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Dubas would make perfect sense in Arizona. He’s the analytics wunderkind. Dubas has got experience working in a front office and has helped the Maple Leafs build an impressive core quickly, as a part of one of the smartest management groups in the league.
But, as Friedman mentions, Dubas may prefer to stay in Toronto. It’s hard to blame him. The 30-year-old came to Toronto two seasons ago in high regard from the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhound of the OHL. Many expect Dubas to take over the Leafs GM role once Lou Lamoriello retires, which should happen in the next couple years.
The Coyotes would be in tough to try to convince Dubas to leave all that he’s accomplished in Toronto for a chance to lead the Coyotes. The only way it could happen is if Dubas was unsure he’s next in line to the GM throne in Toronto and went to the Coyotes for an immediate chance to run a team. Dubas will be a GM eventually, but it will likely be for Toronto.
The Coyotes are smart to sniff around, but Dubas probably isn’t going anywhere.
