Insider Claims Pavelski Isn’t Only ‘Interesting Name’ in Leafs’ Coaching Search

One of the leading traits on John Chayka’s resume was that he is an outside-the-box thinker who isn’t afraid to ruffle some feathers with his decisions. The Toronto Maple Leafs seemed like a destination that might need a veteran coach to steady the waters after a tough calendar year, but recent reports from Elliotte Friedman that Joe Pavelski could get an interview for head coach completely went against the grain.

It isn’t rare to see a team throw an option into their searches, such as Pavelski, and label it as much a fact-finding mission as a legitimate interview for someone who hasn’t coached above minor hockey. However, with Chayka in charge, it’s very hard to rule out that he would do something as bold as hire the ex-NHLer. In fact, Pavelski may not be the only name to spark intrigue, according to Pierre LeBrun via X, formerly Twitter.

“Joe Pavelski isn’t the only interesting name although he sure is interesting for sure (@FriedgeHNIC first to report). Leafs GM John Chayka has spoken to more than 20 coaching candidates. Hearing there’s a few more interesting names in there. The search process is in its second phase now,” LeBrun reported.

It’s worth noting that LeBrun didn’t go as far as to mention any names. Some fans chalked this up to the insider making guesses about what is going on, but it is more likely that he hasn’t been able to 100% confirm any of the names he is hearing, other than Pavelski. With the list nearing 20 names and not a whole lot of re-tread coaches looking for work, it would make sense if some of those 20 would surprise some people.

Joe Pavelski Headlines Maple Leafs’ Head Coach Search

The only question is how far outside the box Chayka is willing to go in the coaching search. We already know he looked into an NCAA coach in David Carle, but he’s been such a hot name that it’s no surprise anymore. There was also some noise recently about Kitchener Rangers head coach Jussi Ahokas, who led a dominant team to the Memorial Cup this season, and another CHL name that comes up often is the uber-successful Moncton Wildcats head coach, Gardiner MacDougall.

If Chayka had some interest in the ex-player route, there could be other recently retired players on the 20-name list, but that likely won’t come out until names start to get crossed off in the second phase of interviews. Nevertheless, it’s clear that Chayka and the new-look front office aren’t leaving any stone unturned.

Next: What Should the Maple Leafs Prioritize Most this Offseason?