The Toronto Maple Leafs have entered the second phase of their search for a 42nd head coach, trimming the field to five candidates after the departure of Manny Malhotra and the hiring of Peter Laviolette by the Los Angeles Kings.

Peter Laviolette’s Move to the Kings Signals a Coaching Shift

According to the source, the Los Angeles Kings hired former Flyers coach Peter Laviolette on Monday, a move that removes him from the Maple Leafs’ shortlist.. Laviolette’s recent tenure with the Flyers and his reputation for turning teams around make his absence a notable shift in the Leafs’ options.

Jay Woodcroft and Derek Lalonde: Veteran Coaches on the Radar

The article lists Jay Woodcroft and Derek Lalonde as two of the remaining candidates. woodcroft’s experience with the New York Rangers and Lalonde’s recent stint with the Ottawa Senators bring a mix of playoff experience and defensive acumen to the Leafs’ consideration .

Joe Pavelski’s Coaching Credentials Remain Questionable

Joe Pavelski,a former player turned coach, is mentioned as a potential hire. However , the source notes that his coaching record is limited, raising questions about his readiness to lead an NHL franchise.

Internal Candidate Mike Van Ryn Faces Head Coaching Hurdles

Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reported that Mike Van Ryn,an internal assisant coach with three years in Toronto, interviewed for the vacancy. The source points out that Van Ryn has no NHL head‑coaching experience and that the Leafs’ defense allowed the second‑most goals last season, casting doubt on his candidacy.

Why Bruce Cassidy Is Out of the Running

The article states that Bruce Cassidy, a prominent head‑coach name, is not a favorite for the Leafs’ vacancy. This decision reflects the organization’s desire for a different cooaching profile , possibly one with a stronger defensive track record .

What’s Still Unknown About the Final Decision

While the source lists five candidates, it does not disclose the Leafs’ internal criteria for selection. It also leaves unanswered whether the club will prioritize a coach with a proven defensive system or one with a high‑scoring offensive philosophy.