All signs were pointing to a new deal that would see Kyle Dubas back in the hot seat as the General Manager of the Toronto Maple Leafs. The rumour mill was abuzz, hinting that both parties were eager to seal the deal before the week ran out. However, the atmosphere seems to have shifted; the once-promising scenario isn't looking as bright as before.
Elliotte Friedman, the renowned Sportsnet correspondent, put a damper on the proceedings by announcing that the negotiations were on pause - a 'breather', to use his own words. He stated, "The negotiation process has come to a standstill."
Naturally, this turn of events raises a few questions. Regrettably, Friedman didn't expand on the reasons for the break. Could it be a mutually agreed-upon hiatus allowing both sides to regroup? Or, perhaps, a demand by one party in response to an unacceptable stance taken by the other? One thing to ponder is whether a specific date has been earmarked for the talks to continue, or if this pause is more open-ended.
The monetary aspect is, of course, an integral part of the negotiation. However, whispers in the corridors suggest that Dubas is also seeking a more autonomous role in decision making. This could entail minimizing team President Brendan Shanahan's role or even completely phasing out the position - the exact implications remain unclear.
