The Toronto Maple Leafs dismissed Craig Berube as head coach on Wednesday, ending a season that saw the club miss the Stanley Cup playoffs for the first time in a decade. The move leaves general manager John Chayka and senior hockey‑operations advisor Mats Sundin tasked with finding a replacement who can blend youthful energy with proven experience.

Craig Berube's dismissal after misisng the 2025‑26 playoffs

According to the team’s announcement, Berube was relieved of his duties following a disappointing 2025‑26 campaign in which the Leafs failed to qualify for the postseason, breaking a ten‑year streak. The decision reflects ownership’s impatience with a roster that has underperformed despite a talent‑rich lineup.

John Chayka and Mats Sundin weigh coaching candidates

The search now falls to GM John Chayka,who returned to the organization earlier this year, and former captain Mats Sundin, serving as senior executive advisor of hockey operations. As reported, both men are expected to prioritize candidates who can adapt quickly to the pressure‑cooker environment of Toronto while fostering the development of emerging stars.

Youth versus experience debate in Toronto's bench search

Sources close to the front office say the primary dilemma is whether to hire a young, up‑and‑coming coach who can grow with the team’s core of Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner, or a veteran strategist with a track record of plaayoff success. The league has seen a recent trend of teams opting for younger coaches—like the Seattle Kraken’s Dave Hakstol—yet the Leafs’ recent history of early exits may push them toward a more seasoned hand.

Potential internal candidates like Sheldon Keefe

One name circulating is former Leafs head coach Sheldon Keefe, who currently serves as a senior advisor within the organization.. Keefe’s familiarity with the club’s culture and his recent work developing prospects in the AHL make him a plausible internal option, though his previous stint with the Leafs ended in 2022 after a series of playoff disappointments.

Who will get the job? Unanswered specifics in the hiring process

The announcement did not name any candidates, leaving fans to wonder which external names—such as former Boston Bruins assistant coach Jim Montgomery or former NHL player-turned-coach Craig Anderson—might be on the shortlist. additionally, the timeline for the hire remains unclear, and it is unknown whether the Leafs will conduct a public interview process or keep negotiations behind closed doors.