The Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender had a tough time at practice on Saturday, breaking a stick earlier and then taking his other one and nearly breaking it over the crossbar after allowing a goal. Jason Spezza will not be part of the Toronto Maple Leafs plans moving forward. According to TSN Hockey Insider Pierre Lebrun, Spezza tendered his resignation from the club in the moments that followed Kyle Dubas' dismissal as general manager of the club. Spezza had spent the last season serving as a special assistant to Dubas. The announcement was made on May 29, 2022, in conjunction with the All-Star forward's retirement from the NHL. The Maple Leafs elected not to renew Dubas' contract as GM of the club on Friday ending days of drama that ensued following doubt about his desire to return in his end-of-season news conference. [gallery ids="4962,4963,4964,4965"] Spezza's relationship with players and staff was seen as key in Dubas' evaluation and process over the past season. As Toronto Maple Leafs president Brendan Shanahan expressed a desire to keep the group around, it seems as though Spezza has remained loyal to Dubas by electing to resign. The 39-year-old Spezza spent his final three seasons with the Maple Leafs at a minimum NHL salary. He didn't want to play anywhere else, making it clear that if anyone tried to claim him off waivers, he would simply retire. A Toronto native, Spezza talked about joining the Leafs as a dream come true and it's not clear at this time if Spezza intends to continue to pursue an executive role with another club. Related Maple Leafs President Brendan Shanahan Details Timeline of Events That Led to Kyle Dubas' Dismissal as General Manager [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/toronto-maple-leafs/news/maple-leafs-president-brendan-shanahan-details-timeline-of-events-that-led-to-kyle-dubas-dismissal-as-general-manager] Marlies Dismiss Coaching Staff Following Playoffs Exit [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/toronto-maple-leafs/news/marlies-dismiss-coaching-staff-following-playoffs-exit] Maple Leafs Announce Kyle Dubas Will Not Return as General Manager [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/toronto-maple-leafs/news/developing-maple-leafs-announce-kyle-dubas-will-not-return-as-general-manager]
