The Toronto Maple Leafs are committed to a thorough search for a new head coach. Reports indicate that they have conducted approximately 15 virtual interviews to find a suitable candidate following Craig Berube’s departure. Among the interviewees are two notable figures: Patrick Roy and Peter Laviolette.
Coaching Candidates for Maple Leafs
Peter Laviolette, a well-known figure in the NHL, has significant coaching experience. He most recently coached the New York Rangers from 2023 to 2025, where he led the team to a conference final in his first year. Laviolette has a long career, totaling over 1,594 games as a head coach, including stints with the New York Islanders, Carolina Hurricanes, Philadelphia Flyers, Nashville Predators, and Washington Capitals. He also famously won the Stanley Cup in 2006 with the Hurricanes.
In addition to Laviolette, Patrick Roy, a Hall of Fame goaltender, has also been interviewed. Roy previously coached the New York Islanders and brings a wealth of experience to the table. Another candidate mentioned is David Carle from the University of Denver, although his status remains unclear.
Current Coaching Landscape
Outside of the Maple Leafs, other NHL teams are managing coaching changes. The Los Angeles Kings and Edmonton Oilers are among the other franchises with coaching vacancies. For the Kings, interim coach D.J. Smith and former Oilers coach Jay Woodcroft are key candidates. Smith took over from Jim Hiller and led the Kings to an 11-6-6 record but was eliminated in the first round of the playoffs.
Woodcroft has prior success with the Oilers, having achieved a 79-41-13 record before being dismissed just 13 games into the 2023-24 season.
Free Agency Updates
As the offseason approaches, exciting developments are expected with player movements. A.J. Greer, currently with the Florida Panthers, is projected to enter the free agency market on July 1. Last season, he recorded 17 goals and 15 assists, showcasing his ability to impact games effectively.
Coaching Changes and Future Prospects
The coaching landscape is dynamic, with teams reevaluating their staff. Jessica Campbell, noted for making history as the NHL’s first full-time female assistant coach, departed the Seattle Kraken but may receive interest from the Vancouver Canucks. Meanwhile, former Canucks general manager Patrik Allvin is also in discussions with the Kraken.
As the coaching carousel continues, the Maple Leafs remain focused on finding a leader who can guide them in the upcoming season. The interviews with high-profile candidates like Roy and Laviolette highlight the team’s ambition to return to the top of the NHL standings.
