Bylsma Stays, Torchetti to coach kids

TORONTO- GM Ron Dubin announced today that Dan Bylsma was staying on as head coach of the Toronto Maple Leafs, also adding that he has hired John Torchetti as coach of the AHL Toronto Marlies.  Bylsma took a gutted team and guided them to a semi-respectable record in the league, finishing 26th.

"Dan is one of the better coaches in this league."  GM Dubin said, "The record does not speak for what Dan gives us as a coach, a motivator and a communicator.  We are going through a rebuild, and it's well underway.  It is my job to provide Dan with players that can play his system and succeed.  I believe we are on the right path to doing that."

The Leafs augmented, what was considered a depleted lineup last year by adding James Van Riemsdyk and Curtis Glencross.  Matt Stajan also came on board, making his second tour of duty with the team.  Sources say that interest league-wide for Van Riemsdyk's services are very high, but GM Dubin remains firm not to trade him.

"I get calls for James daily, and I turn each one down."  Dubin said candidly.  "The only way I'm going to move a guy like James is if I drastically improve this team.  So far, I have not seen an offer that fufills that objective, and that is why James is still a Leaf."

Asked if he was shopping Van Riemsdyk, Dubin replied firmly "No."