Questions about Dubas’ future sure to linger over Leafs

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There is a fascinating dynamic emerging in Toronto, where general manager Kyle Dubas is entering lame-duck territory.

Speaking at Media Day on Wednesday, Dubas relayed a conversation he had with Maple Leafs president Brendan Shanahan during the summer. In short: Dubas would not be receiving an extension, with Shanahan opting to wait and see how the team progresses through a pivotal season.

In his fifth and potentially final season as general manager, Dubas has an awful lot on his plate. The pressure to deliver a team that can win in the postseason is extraordinary, owing to his team’s perpetual playoff flameouts. Last season’s early exit wasn’t the worst of the team’s playoff failures considering the opponent, but it marked the fifth consecutive first-round exit for the organization. It’s a blemish that won’t wash away without a serious Stanley Cup bid.

At first pass, it would seem difficult not to take the position of Shanahan when it comes to Dubas' future – at least for now. The goal for every NHL franchise is to build a contender and win a Stanley Cup. If you measure Dubas on this mandate, it’s clear the team has failed on the latter. Such is life when you haven’t won a single playoff series. And to Dubas' credit, he seems fine for now with the arrangement, telling Toronto media he was comfortable being judged at the end of this season.

On the other hand, this is a very tricky spot for a Toronto organization that isn’t far removed from years (and years) of abject futility. Dubas has had plenty of help, but it would be remiss to not acknowledge just how dynamic his team has been since he took over from predecessor Lou Lamoriello. If Dubas gets blame for what happens in April, he should also get