The Toronto Maple Leafs, under new general manager John Chayka, are conducting a broad search for a head coach, interviewing multiple candidates including Patrick Roy, Laval Rocket’s Joel Bouchard, and possibly Dallas Eakins.. According to NHL insdier David Pagnotta, the team has held interviews over Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, with more expected before narrowing the list. The search comes as the franchise aims to build on recent regular-season success and translate it into deeper playoff runs.

The Patrick Roy Factor: Why the Islanders Let Him Interview

Among the most high-profile candidates is Hockey Hall of Famer Patrick Roy, who has received permission from the New York Islanders to speak with Toronto, as Pagnotta reported. Roy’s NHL coaching record includes a Stanley Cup with the Colorado Avalanche in 2001 (as a player) and a stint as head coach of the Avalanche from 2013 to 2016, reaching the playoffs twice. The fact that the Islanders are allowing Roy to interview suggests either that they are open to letting him go or that they value maintaining a good relationship. Roy’s fiery personality and tactical mind could bring a new intensity to the Leafs, but his previous NHL coaching tenure ended with reported clashes with management.

Joel Bouchard’s AHL Success and the Jump to Toronto

Another candidate, Laval Rocket head coach Joel Bouchard, has built a strong reputation in the American Hockey League for developing young talent and implemenitng a structured system.. Bouchard has no NHL head-coaching experience,but his work with the Montreal Canadiens’ affiliate has drawn attention across the league. According to the source, Bouchard is among those interviewed, highlighting Chayka’s willingness to consider coaches who have not yet led an NHL bench. The question is whether Bouchard’s AHL methods can translate to a high-pressure market like Toronto, where every game is scrutinized.

Dallas Eakins’ German Detour and a Marlies Sighting

Dallas Eakins,who spent part of last season coaching in Germany, was seen at a Toronto Marlies game on Monday, sparking speculation about his candidacy. Eakins previously coached the Edmonton Oilers and Anaheim Ducks in the NHL, posting a combined record of 88-113-27. His presence at a Marlies game — the Leafs’ minor-league affiliate — suggests he may be a candidate or at least under consideration. As reported by Pagnotta, Eakins is one of several names in the wide net, though his NHL track record is mixed. His experience with rebuilding teams could resonate with Toronto’s roster, which is aging but still has core stars .

What John Chayka’s ‘Wide Net’ Really Means

Chayka, a former analytics executive with the Arizona Coyotes, promised a thorough and data-driven approach when he took the GM role. the wide net — including a legend like Roy, an AHL developer like Bouchard, and a veteran retread like Eakins — suggests he is not prioritizing one coaching archetype over another. Instead, he appears to be evaluating adaptability, system fit, and the ability to handle the unique pressures of the Maple Leafs market. The source emphasizes that the interviews are ongoing and more meetings are expected, indicating the process is still in its early stages.

One Question Still Unanswered: Who Fits the Roster?

While the names are intriguing, the source does not detail how each candidate’s system would mesh with the Leafs’ core of Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, William Nylander, and Morgan Rielly. The team has struggled in playoff series against physical, structured opponents, and a coach who can instill defensive accountability while maximizing offensive talent will be critical. None of the reported candidates — Roy, Bouchard, or Eakins — have a proven track record of deep playoff success in the salary-cap era. The search also leaves open the question of whether Chayka will target a younger, analytics-friendly coach or an experiened motivator. As Pagnotta noted, some earlier names like Jay Woodcroft may no longer be in play, suggesting the list is fluid and narrowing by the day.