The Toronto Sun's Steve Simmons goes over his usual wide array of topics in this Sunday's column, but his "lede" involves a suggestion that the San Jose Sharks' decision to retain Todd McLellan's services prevented the new Atlantic Division from including a trio of current or former members of the Red Wings' coaching staff behind its teams' benches:

At least four NHL teams, two not necessarily looking to replace their coach, were prepared to make a pitch to McLellan, had he been made available.

One of those teams is believed to be the Maple Leafs, who have been silent on Randy Carlyle’s status since their season ended and Brendan Shanahan was anointed as team president.

And at the same time, had Carlyle been let loose by the Leafs, there were two other teams interested in hiring him to coach.

Now, with McLellan probably staying in San Jose, the likelihood is the Leafs won’t wait long to confirm that Carlyle will return in his position as coach: He has one year left on his contract.

Simmons continues at length...