Former Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Kyle Dubas’ name continues to spark controversy, only one of which isn’t about his next job, it’s about his connection to the agent representing his interests.
The Daily Faceoff reported Thursday that Dubas and his agent Chris Armstrong are the focus of an investigation by the National Hockey League Players Association (NHLPA). A breach of one of his rules is suspected, a spokesman for the same source said.
Specifically, the NHLPA prohibits players’ agents from also representing league officers or staff. However, Armstrong works for the company Wasserman Sports, which has, among others, the star player of the Leafs, Auston Matthews, as a customer. Also, Dubas’ man of trust is not a certified NHL agent and works primarily for pro golfers like Tony Finau who do business with the same company. Consequently, he does not face any sanctions from the union.
However, due to the different business areas Wasserman covers in the sports world, a gray area still exists.
“I haven’t heard of any trial [de l’AJLNH]”But I’m sure any of our agents in our hockey department will be happy to answer union questions on this matter,” Jeff Jackson, the company’s vice president of hockey, told the Daily Faceoff.
Armstrong has worked for his current employer since 2010, and Sports Business Journal reported on his pivotal role in opening a Toronto office that serves a diverse range of Canadian athletes.
Dubas ended his association with the Leafs on Friday.
Dubas in Pittsburgh?
In addition, rumors are circulating that Dubas will be the next general manager of the Pittsburgh Penguins.
On Thursday, TSN network reporter Chris Johnston got wet. According to some of his sources, there’s “about a 98 percent chance” that Dubas will find a job in Pittsburgh.
After missing the playoffs for the first time since 2006, the Penguins announced the firing of Ron Hextall, GM since 2021, last April.