Direct answer: Leafs GM candidates are widely reported to include Evan Gold and Ryan Martin as finalists, with other names like John Chayka still in the mix; several insider reports in early to mid April pointed to a narrowing search and potential in-person interviews, but the team had not publicly confirmed a final decision as of late April 2026.[2][3][5]
Context and highlights
- Reports in mid-April indicated the Leafs had whittled the field to a small group, with two confirmed finalists (Evan Gold, Ryan Martin) and a possible third, per insider chatter.[3][2]
- Sportsnet’s updates around April 23 suggested Friedman’s latest pod had the group as Ryan Martin, Scott White, and possibly John Chayka as a core trio, with in-person interviews and a potential final phase discussed.[5]
- Additional outlets throughout April echoed the theme that Hayley Wickenheiser was discussed internally and could be a surprising candidate, though this remained speculation and not a formal announcement.[1]
What to watch next
- Look for an official Toronto Maple Leafs press release or a statement from owner Edward Rogers confirming the new GM and outlining the role’s scope. If you want, I can monitor reliable outlets and summarize any official confirmation as soon as it’s published.
- If you’re tracking the candidates, a short list commonly cited includes Evan Gold (Bruins), Ryan Martin (Rangers), John Chayka (former Coyotes executive), and occasional mentions of Hayley Wickenheiser as an internal candidate.[1][2][5]
Would you like me to pull the very latest updates from current outlets and compile a concise, dated timeline of the Leafs’ GM search milestones? I can also add a quick comparison of the top contenders’ backgrounds.[5]
Sources
The Toronto Maple Leafs may not be in the Stanley Cup Playoffs this season. Still, as the center of the hockey universe, the Maple Leafs general manager search might be the most talked-about topic leading into the most important time of the year.
www.yardbarker.comTSN's Darren Dreger reports that it was suggested to him on Thursday that Toronto could hire just a general manager.
thehockeynews.comThe finalists come from two from rival teams, with one wild card still in the mix
www.hockeyfeed.comA notable insider stoked the fire of Toronto Maple Leafs rumors regarding the search for the organization's new GM.
heavy.comThe Toronto Maple Leafs fell apart in the 2025-26 season and it appears they are going into a major retooling as they take stock of their disastrous year.
www.yardbarker.comThe Toronto Maple Leafs need a new GM after firing Brad Treliving. Who would be best to run the Buds?
thehockeynews.comThe Toronto Maple Leafs are down to their final four general manager candidates after embarking on a wide search for the team's new GM.
heavy.comAs we approach the one-month mark since the Toronto Maple Leafs fired general manager Brad Treliving, anticipation around who they will hire next has only grown.
www.sportsnet.ca