Toronto Maple Leafs have spoken to NY Islanders assistant GM about vacant job

A member of the New York Islanders front office is drawing interest as the Toronto Maple Leafs continue their search for a new general manager.

Assistant GM Ryan Bowness is believed to have interviewed for the position, according to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman's 32 Thoughts Podcast, adding another name to Toronto’s growing list of candidates.

Bowness, 42, joined the Islanders shortly after Mathieu Darche was hired, bringing more than a decade of NHL experience in hockey operations and scouting. He began his career in 2009 with the Atlanta Thrashers and remained with the organization following its relocation to Winnipeg, later transitioning into a pro scouting role.

He spent three seasons with the Pittsburgh Penguins in a similar capacity before being promoted to lead their pro scouting department. Bowness later joined the Ottawa Senators as an assistant general manager in 2022, where he also oversaw the club’s AHL affiliate in Belleville. He was elevated to associate GM before departing the organization and joining the Islanders.

The Maple Leafs’ search has included a mix of experienced executives and first-time candidates. Former general managers such as Mike Gillis and John Chayka have reportedly been considered, along with internal options. Bowness is among several external candidates viewed as rising executives.

For the Islanders, the interest in Bowness reflects the early shaping of Darche’s front office. While the organization is coming off a season that ended short of the playoffs, its leadership group has begun to draw attention around the league.

Toronto has not announced a timeline for its hiring decision, and additional interviews are expected in the coming days.

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