Penguins GM Kyle Dubas could be looking to snatch another member of the Toronto Maple Leafs

Following the acquisition of Jason Spezza, Wes Clark has now joined as the Vice President of Player Personnel.

The move comes after Dubas' recent efforts to strengthen the Penguins' front office, especially after Clark's departure from the Maple Leafs, which had a significant impact on Toronto, particularly on rising prospect Easton Cowan. Cowan had developed a close bond with Clark, making this transition especially hard for the young player.

Dubas' loyalty to individuals he worked with during his tenure with the Maple Leafs seems to be playing a central role in these moves. Many speculate this reshuffle is part of a larger strategy to replicate what he had begun in Toronto, with his trusted allies now assisting him in Pittsburgh.

As if the loss of Clark wasn't enough for the Maple Leafs, it seems like another key figure, Victor Carneiro, has parted ways with the organization. Carneiro, who first joined the Maple Leafs in 2018, had worked closely with Dubas since their time with the Soo Greyhounds in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). The two share a long history, and Carneiro's departure is another reminder of Dubas' deep connections within the hockey world.

Carneiro's contributions to scouting were highly regarded. His keen eye for talent was often praised in interviews, including one with the National Post, where he delved into the intricacies of evaluating young players. His exit from Toronto raises questions about the future of the Leafs' scouting department and how the organization plans to fill the void left by his departure.

Dubas' tendency to stay loyal to those he worked with at the start of his career is evident. As he continues to rebuild the Penguins' roster and front office, the question remains whether this strategy will bring him the playoff success that eluded him in Toronto. Loyalty is essential in hockey, but winning is what ultimately defines legacies in this business. With the NHL being a results-driven league, Dubas must ensure that his decisions pay off for the Penguins, or his tenure in Pittsburgh might mirror his struggles in Toronto.

His moves to bring key members from his Toronto days into Pittsburgh show a strong belief in the capabilities of his former colleagues. However, whether these familiar faces can help turn the Penguins into a contender remains to be seen. For now, Dubas is playing a high-stakes game, and only time will tell if his strategy will lead to success or further disappointment.

Source: Hockey Patrol
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