Reports Confirm Sheldon Keefe is Among the Most Likely Coaches to be Fired

The Maple Leafs have a lot on their plate before next season. They still need to d something for Matt Murray, Ilya Samsonov, William Nylander and Auston Matthew. One of the things Brad Treliving doesn't have to worry about is Sheldon Keefe. The GM confirmed that he'll stay in Toronto at least for this season, the last one on his current contract.

A public poll asked fans to vote on who they think will lose their coaching jobs.

Keefe came in fifth place. DJ Smith, Craig Berube, Rick Bowness and John Tortorella hold the four first positions.

Compared to the other teams in the top five, the Leafs had an exceptional season last year, earning 111 points. The Senators, Blues, Jets, and Flyers earned 86, 81, 95, and 75 points respectively. It's clear that the Leafs are in a different league altogether.

The pressure is certainly on Keefe. If the Leafs find themselves out of playoff contention or on a long losing streak, there might be some changes.

Is this the final year for the Maple Leafs' championship hopes with their core four players? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: this is a critical year for the Leafs, especially for Keefe.

As seen on Hockey Patrol - Report: Sheldon Keefe Appears To Be On The Hot Seat