Maple Leafs awaiting Mats Sundin decision on potential front-office role

The next Toronto Maple Leafs braintrust could hinge on a team legend.

Mats Sundin continues to ponder a potential role in the team's front office, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reported on Monday's edition of 32 Thoughts: The Podcast.

"I have wondered if he's been contemplating a larger role than has been hinted or reported, and I still believe that's true and I think everyone's hoping to get an idea this week of where he's leaning and what he's considering," Friedman said.

After missing the playoffs for the first time in a decade, the Maple Leafs fired general manager Brad Treliving in March.

Friedman reported Friday that the Leafs appeared to have narrowed their search to former Arizona Coyotes GM John Chayka and Dallas Stars assistant GM Scott White.

Now, Sundin — the team's all-time leader in points and game-winning goals — may have some element of involvement.

"Once we know where Sundin falls on this, we'll have a truer, clearer picture of what the Maple Leafs front office is going to look like," Friedman said.

Here's a look at other NHL teams looking for general managers:

Vancouver Canucks

The Canucks are deep in an interview process featuring names like Maple Leafs assistant GM Shane Doan, former Buffalo Sabres GM Kevyn Adams, Canucks assistant GM Ryan Johnson, longtime NHLer Ray Whitney and Edmonton Oilers assistant GM Bill Scott.

There are also five others in the mix, per Friedman, including some with B.C. connections as the Canucks potentially look for someone "that might have some pride in the region."

Nashville Predators

The Predators' GM search may be clouded in some mystery.

"I have a sneaking suspicion that there's a potential curveball there, that they've been either considering or talking to or looking at someone we haven't seen yet," Friedman said, adding that a decision is not expected on Monday.