Report: Shanahan joining NHL's hockey operations department

Brendan Shanahan is joining the NHL's hockey operations department, reports TSN's Darren Dreger.

Shanahan spent 11 seasons as president of the Toronto Maple Leafs until the team opted not to renew his contract over the offseason. The New York Islanders expressed interest in hiring Shanahan before ultimately tabbing Mathieu Darche to lead their hockey operations department in May.

Despite his new role, the 56-year-old could be a leading candidate to latch on with another NHL team if an opportunity arises, Dreger adds.

Shanahan worked in the league office for five years prior to his tenure with the Maple Leafs, spending three seasons as the vice president of player safety.

A three-time Stanley Cup champion during his 21-year NHL playing career, Shanahan was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2013.