Bruce Cassidy's recent behaviour likely ruins his chance to coach Maple Leafs

The latest noise around Toronto's search is not about Cassidy's resume. It is about whether he actually wanted the job before the market dried up. If the Leafs believe he had little to no interest until other roles were filled, that should matter. A lot.

Toronto just rebuilt its power structure around John Chayka and Mats Sundin, with Chayka installed as GM and Sundin returning as senior executive advisor. Sportsnet also reported Sundin's role is a full-time commitment and that Chayka has final say in the hockey operation.

This is where Sundin's presence should change the standard.

For years, Toronto has been treated like the job everyone respects but not everyone wants to survive. The pressure, the market, the history, the noise - it is all part of the deal. If Cassidy looked at that and hesitated until better-looking doors closed, the Leafs should not pretend they missed that.

Yes, Cassidy is decorated. Pro Hockey Rumors noted he won the 2023 Stanley Cup, has a strong NHL record, and would be one of the biggest names on the market. But Toronto's coaching search has already been wide, with Reuters reporting the Leafs had interviewed at least 15 candidates, including Joe Pavelski, Patrick Roy, Peter Laviolette, and David Carle.

That gives Chayka options.

Cassidy may be qualified, but the Leafs cannot hire someone who made them feel like a fallback. This new regime is supposed to reward people who actively want Toronto, not people who circle back once the rest of the league says no.

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