I think Linden is much better off. Linden isn't inheriting a GM. He can bring in his own guy right away. Shanahan is inheriting a GM and a management team that has quite frankly failed Leafs fans. The chances are Shanahan is in a no win situation right now. He keeps the management team and some aren't going to be happy. He fires Nonis and some aren't going to happy. Linden doesn't have this problem unless he hires Gilman because Canucks fans want a regime change.
Of course it is ultimately all about the product on the ice and so it really depends on the perceived role of President. It all comes down to how much the President defers to the General Manager and who he hires/keeps as the General Manager. As far as hockey operations decisions, neither guy has proven anything so there's really no telling. But as far as the business side of things, Linden makes a lot more sense. He's a beloved player for the organization, he knows the community, has a ton of business connections in BC, and he instantly fits right in as the face of the organization like he was for many years. Shanahan? He was never a Leaf. It's like if Iginla had retired and started his own fitness club for a few years here in Calgary. Who is better off as President? Iginla for the Flames or Shanahan for the Leafs?
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