Despite Keefe's significant efforts this season, overcoming numerous challenges and successfully leading his team to the playoffs, the Leafs' management decided a change was needed. Treliving praised Keefe for his excellent coaching skills and his dedication over the past nine years, wishing him and his family well in their future endeavors. The decision underscores the results-driven nature of the league; had the Leafs advanced to the second round of the playoffs, the situation might have been different. Even with key players like
Auston Matthews and
William Nylander missing games, Keefe managed to push the series to a seventh game, demonstrating his capability to lead under pressure.