The Toronto Maple Leafs have agreed to terms with head coach Sheldon Keefe on a two-year extension. Keefe was entering the final year of his contract this season. Leafs general manager Brad Treliving confirmed the term during Wednesday's video call with the media. "I think Sheldon is a top coach," Treliving said to the reporters. "When you've got good people, you want to keep them”. Treliving had initially said during his introductory press conference that he’d have to get to know Keefe better before making an assessment on an extension.

Keefe was hired on Nov. 20, 2019, taking over after Mike Babcock was fired. He has posted a 166-71-30 record during the regular season. Overall, the Leafs have recorded a .622 winning percentage during that span, the fourth-best in the NHL. The 42-year-old led the Leafs to second in the Atlantic Division last season, with a 50-21-11 record. Toronto defeated the Tampa Bay Lightning in the first round for its first series win since 2004 but was swept by the Florida Panthers in Round 2.

Overall, I like this signing as it demonstrates faith in Keefe while alleviating any contract concerns that may have hung over him and the team this season. However, I do not actually think it has a major difference on his job security if the Leafs falter this season, especially early in the playoffs Keefe won’t have any excuses.