The Toronto Maple Leafs has decided to part ways with General Manager Brian Burke, according to  TSN.ca.

To say this news is surprising would be an understatement. While it’s true that the Leafs were less than successful under Burke’s tenure, he was able to take a team in total ruin and begin to build a young core that could compete down the road. At the same time, he made some rather controversial moves, most notably acquiring Phil Kessel for picks that the Boston Bruins then used to grab some very promising youngsters in Tyler Seguin, Dougie Hamilton, and Jared Knight. The Leafs inability to make the playoffs last season was also a blow, but it was thought that he’d get a chance to redeem himself this season before his future would be decided.

Burke had been the Maple Leafs president and general manager since November 29, 2008.

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