The Toronto Maple Leafs have dismissed head coach Craig Berube following the team’s last-place finish in the NHL’s Atlantic Division this season. Berube, who led the Maple Leafs for two years, had a successful first season with a 108-point campaign but faced significant challenges in the 2025-26 season.
General manager John Chayka announced the decision after a meeting with Berube regarding his future. Chayka emphasized that the move was not a reflection of Berube’s coaching abilities but rather a strategic decision for the team’s direction.
Although Berube expressed a desire to continue coaching next season, Chayka highlighted the need for a coaching change as part of a broader restructuring effort alongside Mats Sundin, the senior executive director of hockey operations.
Chayka plans to conduct an extensive search for Berube’s successor to ensure the critical decision of appointing a new head coach is made diligently. The Maple Leafs, despite a roster featuring star players like Auston Matthews and William Nylander, faced challenges on the ice, including struggles with their power play and defensive deficiencies.
Berube’s coaching journey began with the Philadelphia Flyers organization before his tenure with the Maple Leafs. He previously guided the St. Louis Blues to a Stanley Cup title in 2019 after a remarkable turnaround season.
Following the coaching change, the Maple Leafs are gearing up for the NHL Draft, where they are expected to make a high pick. The team’s next head coach will play a pivotal role in shaping the coaching staff and guiding the Maple Leafs in the upcoming season.