It’s time to play one of our favourite games here on Backhand Shelf: compile interesting, noteworthy points from people in the know, and occasionally a few thoughts from someone somewhat out of the mainstream. So, let’s get to it. We’ll be updating as the news roles in…

Timing of Burke dismissal very odd. He and all brass were at Marlies game last night in Hamilton. Truth will surface. Something fishy.

— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) January 9, 2013

@mc79hockey on radio, @botchford saying he heard rumblings that “extracurriculars involving other MLSE employees” could be main factor

— Rhys J (@Thats_Offside) January 9, 2013

Dave Nonis is the next GM of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Unclear whether that is interim or unconditional appointment.

— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) January 9, 2013

Boy, something really stinks in Toronto.

— adater (@adater) January 9, 2013

Nonis GM. Told Burke still an advisor.

— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) January 9, 2013

More updates as they roll in…

UPDATES:

Anselmi says decision to let Burke go was made by him and the MLSE board (Tanenbaum, Rogers, Bell).

— Steve McAllister (@yahoomac) January 9, 2013

Nonis appointment as GM and senior VP is not interim.

— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) January 9, 2013

Source: “Chances of Luongo in Toronto just improved.”

— James Mirtle (@mirtle) January 9, 2013

Wow, nothing more unimpressive than the Maple Leads brass explaining Brian Burke. Pathetic and weaselly.

— John Buccigross (@Buccigross) January 9, 2013

@mapleleafs name David Nonis Sen. VP & GM effective immediately.Burke to stay on in Senior Advisory role to Anselmi and MLSE Board.

— MLSE PR (@MLSEPR) January 9, 2013

John Ferguson Jr. lasted 105 days longer as #Leafs GM than Brian Burke

— Check The Ticker (@ChecktheTicker) January 9, 2013

Anselmi: “Brian will not have direct authority over hockey operations… this will allow (us) to benefit from his hockey expertise.”

— James Mirtle (@mirtle) January 9, 2013

Anselmi. luongo not a factor in #Burke firing

— Kevin McGran (@kevin_mcgran) January 9, 2013

Watching the Leafs presser. Dave Nonis looks like he is going to vomit or cry. or both.

— Daryn Jones (@DarynJones) January 9, 2013

*Anselmi notes that the firing had nothing to do with Brian’s personal life, saying “Brian has a style…” which implies it was that style that they had had enough of.

Nonis looks very emotional today. Obviously close with Burke, who hasn’t had an easy few years.

— James Mirtle (@mirtle) January 9, 2013

Nonis endorses Carlyle as coach. Unsurprisingly.

— James Mirtle (@mirtle) January 9, 2013

Nonis on Randy Carlyle: “We’re thrilled that he’s going to start the season with us.” Notes that he both hired and traded Carlyle,

— John Kreiser (@jkreiser77nhl) January 9, 2013

So the reason for Burke’s firing was “leadership style.” Fine. Still does not answer the big question: Why now?

— Nick Cotsonika (@cotsonika) January 9, 2013

I love how Dave Nonis has a loose tie during this presser. Brian Burke’s legacy will live on.

— Nick Cotsonika (@cotsonika) January 9, 2013