MLSE President Pelley: Leafs Committed to Championship Pursuit

Keith Pelley, the President and CEO of Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, addressed Toronto Maple Leafs season-ticket holders in a recent letter. He expressed the team’s unwavering commitment to pursuing a championship. Pelley, who began his tenure at MLSE in early 2024, emphasized that the team aims to not only reach the playoffs but also to achieve greater success.
Challenges of the Current Season
This season, the Toronto Maple Leafs have faced significant challenges. Injuries have impacted the team’s performance, placing them outside the playoff picture in the Eastern Conference. As of now, the Leafs have played 57 games and accumulated 63 points. They are six points behind the Boston Bruins for the final wild-card spot and nine points behind the Detroit Red Wings for the last Atlantic Division playoff position.
Future Outlook
Pelley highlighted that the team’s playoff appearance streak currently stands at nine consecutive seasons, the longest in NHL history. However, he reiterated the need for the team to elevate its performance. “We will do whatever is needed for this team to make the next step,” he stated.
Upcoming Games and Trade Considerations
The Maple Leafs are set to return to play against the Tampa Bay Lightning following the Olympic break. They have six crucial games before the NHL trade deadline on March 6. The outcomes of these matches will significantly influence the decisions made by General Manager Brad Treliving.
- Current Points: 63
- Games Played: 57
- Points Behind Boston Bruins: 6
- Points Behind Detroit Red Wings: 9
Potential Trade Targets
As the trade deadline approaches, the Leafs may consider several players as trade targets:
- Bobby McMann (Impending Free Agent Forward)
- Scott Laughton (Impending Free Agent Forward)
- Simon Benoit (Defenceman)
- Calle Jarnkrok (Forward)
Season-Ticket Holder Information
Pelley also reminded fans that starting in the 2026-2027 season, the NHL schedule will expand to 84 games. Season-ticket holders will maintain their existing package of 41 games plus an exhibition game. They will also have the first opportunity to purchase tickets for the new additional home game.
The commitment of the Leafs to their fans is evident, and with the support of the passionate Leafs Nation, the organization aspires to fulfill its championship dreams.



