Toronto Maple Leafs extend contract of coach Randy Carlyle

Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Randy Carlyle survived a disastrous end to the season. (Len Redkoles/Getty)

The Toronto Maple Leafs struggled mightily toward the end of this past season, finishing 3-13-0 and calling into question coach Randy Carlyle's job security. Team executives answered those questions Thursday by handing Carlyle a two-year extension on top of the one season remaining on his current deal.

The decision was made by Senior Vice President and General Manager Dave Nonis and team president Brendan Shanahan. From Nonis's statement Thursday:

“It was important, after a disappointing end to the season and the arrival of Brendan as team president, to conduct a thorough review of the organization as we continue the work of building a winning tradition and culture for the Maple Leafs. That process started with the head coach, and as we analyzed it, we decided together that Randy Carlyle was the right person to lead this team. In Randy we know that we have a leader who has enjoyed a high level of success as both a player and a coach, including a Stanley Cup championship. It was important that the positives Randy brings to our team were not overshadowed by a finish to the season that we all must take responsibility for.”