Toronto Maple Leafs appoint John Chayka as GM and bring back Mats Sundin

Toronto Maple Leafs have officially appointed Mats Sundin and John Chayka to lead the club’s hockey operations in a major front office overhaul.

Sundin returns to the organisation as Senior Executive Advisor of Hockey Operations in a full-time role, with reports saying he and his family will relocate to Toronto.

Chayka has been named the team’s new general manager and will oversee hockey operations.

“Today is an important day for the Toronto Maple Leafs organization,” Maple Leafs Sports and Entertainment president and CEO Keith Pelley said in a statement.

“I’m thrilled to welcome John and Mats to their roles, two great hockey minds that will strengthen our entire hockey club.”

The organisation said no additional front office changes are currently planned.

Chayka will reportedly have final authority on hockey decisions and will report directly to Pelley, while Sundin and Chayka are expected to work closely together in shaping the team’s future.

“I’m honoured to join the Toronto Maple Leafs organization and excited to work alongside Mats and the entire organization,” Chayka said.

Sundin also expressed his excitement about returning to the club where he spent 13 seasons as captain.

“This fan base deserves greatness and I am grateful for the opportunity to help this team, organization and city achieve that,” Sundin said, according to TSN .