With the Toronto Maple Leafs' boardroom relatively untenanted, Brendan Shanahan and his three-headed management team have directed aim at the Toronto Marlies.

The team announced Tuesday that Gord Dineen has been relieved of his duties as head coach of the Maple Leafs' AHL affiliate, along with associate bench boss Derek King.

Shanahan's right-hand man, Kyle Dubas, told reporters the team is looking for an elite young coach to fit a "shift in philosophy" within the organization.

Dineen has the option to stay on in an associate role, but will no longer be the lead influence for the Maple Leafs' stable of prospects.

With an influx of talent added mid-season, the Marlies reversed a woeful start and made an improbable playoff appearance with Connor Brown, Brendan Leipsic and William Nylander progressing well in Dineen's system.

Assistant coach Ben Simon was also removed from his post and was offered a different position within the organization.

Toronto has acquired permission to speak to Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds head coach Sheldon Keefe.