Leafs defender reveals how the team feels about Dubas' dismissal now that some time has passed

The firing of Kyle Dubas came as a surprise to many, particularly the players in Toronto. Morgan Rielly, just a week after Dubas' dismissal, was part of a charity ball hockey tournament. The Leafs blueliner admitted at the time that Shanahan firing Dubas was a shock to all of the guys in the locker room. This week, after much more time has passed, Rielly was able to better describe how caught off guard the players were during a guest appearance on the podcast "Jake's Takes".

"I wasn't expecting it, but I've gotten used to being surprised. I think my first few years when players got traded — obviously teammates, but also friends — when they leave, you're taken aback. Then, you just get used to a new reality. I think that was the case with Kyle leaving."

Rielly, who has seen his fair share of coaches and GM's since being drafted by the Leafs a decade ago, said that he and the rest of the players have moved past Dubas' firing and are focused on the upcoming season.

"We don't spend too much time really worrying about it or thinking about it now. We're just onward, and we're thinking about the next thing. Our group is outstanding. I spent time with Brad (Treliving) and with Sheldon (Keefe) and all the staff, and I think we're in a great spot. So, at this point, we're just trying to look forward, and we're pumped about where we're at and what's going on. I think everybody feels good now, which is really all that matters."


The Leafs have won just 1 playoff round in Rielly's tenure with the Leafs, coming this past season. The hope is that with their first round demons slayed, they will be able to go on a deep run this upcoming season with their new-look supporting cast.