The Toronto Maple Leafs announced the club has hired former Arizona Coyotes executive John Chayka as General Manager and brought home legendary captain Mats Sundin as Senior Executive Advisor of Hockey Operations.
We have named John Chayka the General Manager and Mats Sundin as Senior Executive Advisor, Hockey Operations
— Toronto Maple Leafs (@MapleLeafs) May 3, 2026
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“Today is an important day for the Toronto Maple Leafs organization,” said MLSE President & CEO Keith Pelley. “I’m thrilled to welcome John and Mats to their roles, two great hockey minds that will strengthen our entire hockey club. From the start of this process, it’s been about building a championship-calibre team for our fans and our city and today is an important step towards that goal.”
Chayka, 36, returns to the NHL after a hiatus following his tenure in Arizona. Known for his analytics-heavy approach and co-founding of the data firm Stathletes.
"I’m honoured to join the Toronto Maple Leafs organization and excited to work alongside Mats and the entire organization,” said Chayka. “This is one of hockey’s most historic franchises, with a passionate fan base who want to win. I'm focused on building a team that is competitive, driven and relentless – one that is in the best position to win for our fans and for the City of Toronto.”
The franchise's all-time leading scorer returns to Toronto in a full-time capacity, relocating his family from Sweden. Sundin’s role will focus on "team culture, player development, and leadership support," serving as a bridge between the front office and the locker room.