The Leafs may need to break the bank for David Carle

The Maple Leafs are evaluating candidates for a coaching vacancy. TSN hockey analyst Mike Johnson outlined criteria for the next coach, including a younger approach with an offensive, puck-possession style that empowers creative play and includes proven success. He suggested Jay Woodcroft and David Carle as candidates matching those priorities, noting that the Leafs have reportedly interviewed both. Johnson estimated Woodcroft could cost four years and $16 million. For Carle, he said a premium would be required to convince him to leave his college program at the University of Denver, with a possible six-year, $48 million offer mentioned as the level of compensation that might be necessary.

"Johnson was asked by co-hosts Bryan Hayes, Jamie McLellan, and Jeff O'Neill about his criteria for the next Leafs' coach. He suggested Toronto go after someone younger, with an "offensive, puck-possession slant", who "empowers the players to play creatively" and "has experience being successful." The color analyst's final criteria for his coaching choice was someone who "I don't need to convince to come to Toronto", someone who wants "the challenge and reward that would come with being successful in that market.""

"O'Neill then asked Johnson what the cost would be for each candidate. He proposed a four-year, $16 million number for Woodcroft. Then came the alarming numbers it might take to pry Carle away from Denver. Johnson said a "premium" would be needed to convince Carle to leave Denver. He then revealed that a jaw-dropping six-year, $48 million offer might be required."

"Johnson then offered the names Jay Woodcroft and Carle as his two candidates that fit his description. The Leafs have reportedly interviewed both recently. While the Maple Leafs are in the beginning stages of sifting through the available candidates of this coaching cycle, Johnson turned heads by revealing the astronomical, shocking contract numbers it would take for new general manager John Chayka to land the hottest name on the market: University of Denver powerhouse David Carle."

Read at Editor In Leaf