Maple Leafs fans are not happy about one comment from Sheldon Keefe

Keefe, whose move to New Jersey was announced last week after a brief delay, used this platform to address several pressing questions from Leafs fans, notably his reaction to being fired and his thoughts post-departure.

While confirming his anticipation of the Leafs' decision following another unfulfilling postseason, Keefe expressed appreciation for his tenure in Toronto, emphasizing his ongoing positive relationships within the organization and his readiness to embrace this new chapter in New Jersey.

However, it was Keefe's remark about his reception by other NHL coaches that particularly resonated, hinting at a broader narrative within the league.

This statement opens up various interpretations, reflecting not only on Toronto's distinct place within the NHL but also on how its differences are perceived by others in the league. Known for its intense media scrutiny, Toronto is often viewed as an anomaly in the otherwise evenly keeled NHL landscape.

While Keefe's comments were devoid of any negativity towards the Maple Leafs, the underlying sentiment from his peers—that Toronto's environment is almost a league of its own—underscores the unique challenges and pressures associated with managing in such a spotlight. This perception by rival coaches, while not necessarily derogatory, sheds light on the need for Toronto to redefine its postseason narratives to garner respect akin to its industry support.

Keefe's transition to the Devils marks a significant shift in his coaching journey, promising a fresh start away from the relentless glare of Toronto's hockey scene. As he steps into what his colleagues call "the real NHL," the hockey community watches keenly, perhaps anticipating that under less scrutinizing circumstances, Keefe will craft a new legacy that could influence perceptions back in Toronto.