The Leaf

After missing the playoffs for the ninth time in ten years, Toronto Maple Leafs President Brendan Shanahan knew he needed to make a series of organizational and cultural changes. From the additions of coach Mike Babcock and GM Lou Lamoriello, to the 2015 Draft and the Leafs’ training camp in Halifax, Shanahan talks about the team’s new blueprint for long-term success.

The Leafs begin their 2015-16 season dedicated to day-over-day improvement. Despite a string of early losses, General Manager Lou Lamoriello is pleased with how the team has responded to coach Babcock’s system. Through a mix of hard work and solid workmanlike performances , the Leafs enter November looking more and more like a team to be reckoned with.

Episode 3 of “The Leaf: Blueprint” is about opportunity. Whether it’s more playing time for James Reimer or a fresh start with a new team for P.A. Parenteau and Brad Boyes, now is the time to push. Meanwhile, Leafs Nation looks on as Garret Sparks prepares for his first NHL start.

There’s a thin line between playing at the top of your game and falling below your potential. Whether it’s goaltender Jonathan Bernier looking to regain his form, centre Nazem Kadri’s quest to keep scoring, or Morgan Rielly’s journey to become an elite NHL defenceman, the road to success is fraught with challenges, but made easier by coach Mike Babcock’s support and vision.

As the Toronto Maple Leafs begin 2016, President Brendan Shanahan reflects on the team’s progress. Peter Holland, Byron Froese and captain Dion Phaneuf are among a host of Leafs who have increasingly come to embody the team’s new culture. Now, as the club welcomes legend Dave Keon into the esteemed ranks of Legends Row, it also prepares to unveil a new logo, hoping to inspire the next Leafs dynasty.

Episode 6 of “The Leaf: Blueprint” continues to chronicle the 2015/2016 season of the Toronto Maple Leafs. This time, a blockbuster trade, the fight for an opportunity to play and the blossoming of an NHL All-Star all contribute to the story of how the Toronto Maple Leafs continue to re-invent themselves with an eye toward the future.