Insider Tries to Predict Future of Berube in Toronto

According to Darren Dreger of TSN, don’t expect the Toronto Maple Leafs to fire Craig Berube. While new general manager John Chayka will have autonomy to make that decision and go in a different direction should he choose to, it sounds like he’s not keen to immediately dismiss the current head coach.

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Dreger noted recently, “It’s very likely the Maple Leafs will ‘move forward’ with Craig Berube as the coach of the team next season.” He added, “Unless a GM coming into a new organization has someone in their back pocket they’ve worked with before, new people joining the organization want to get to know the people currently working with the team—especially those still under contract, like Craig Berube (2 more years).”

That doesn’t relieve the coach’s need to produce better results. It does mean he has a bit longer leash than some fans might have the patience for.

Dreger adds, “Berube knows he’ll have to be better next year and still holds a pretty good relationship with Keith Pelley. “It would be surprised if Berube isn’t on the bench at the start of the year.”

Chayka and Mats Sundin are set to talk with the media on Monday and it’s likely the future of the coach will be addressed during that press conference. They may not give a full detailed report of the conversation that have happened or will happen, but don’t be shocked if Chayka relays his faith in Berube off the hop.

Next: Maple Leafs Already Being Accused of Tampering Amid Chayka Hiring