Maple Leafs’ Next Move? Craig Berube Could Be on the Chopping Block

The Toronto Maple Leafs have already made one major organizational change, but it may not be the last. After parting ways with general manager Brad Treliving, attention has quickly shifted to head coach Craig Berube, whose future in Toronto is becoming increasingly uncertain as the team spirals toward missing the playoffs.

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With just a handful of games remaining in the regular season, the Maple Leafs sit well outside the playoff picture. A team that entered the year with Stanley Cup aspirations is now on the verge of missing the postseason for the first time since 2015-16, which would snap the NHL’s longest active playoff streak. In a market like Toronto, that level of underachievement rarely goes without consequences.

Berube Could Be Next to Go

Berube was brought in to change the identity of this team. Known for his no-nonsense approach and ability to hold players accountable, the expectation was that he would tighten up the Leafs defensively while maintaining their offensive firepower. While there have been stretches of improvement, inconsistency has defined Toronto’s season.

Despite flashes of strong play, the Leafs have struggled to put together complete performances. Defensive lapses, questionable special teams, and an inability to win key games down the stretch have all contributed to their position in the standings. Ultimately, those issues fall under the coaching staff.

It’s also worth noting that coaching changes often follow front office shakeups. With Treliving gone, the incoming general manager may want to bring in their own coach—someone who aligns with their vision for how the team should play moving forward. That puts Berube firmly on the hot seat, regardless of how much support he may still have in the locker room.

Leafs Facing Organizational Reset

Toronto’s current situation feels like more than just a disappointing season—it feels like the beginning of a reset. While the core players are likely to remain in place, changes around the edges, including behind the bench, seem inevitable.

The Leafs have invested heavily in their roster, and missing the playoffs is not just a competitive failure—it’s a financial and reputational one. Ownership and management will be under pressure to act quickly and decisively to ensure this season is viewed as an outlier rather than the start of a downward trend.

If that means moving on from Berube to send a message and reset the culture, it would not come as a surprise.

Potential Replacements for Berube

If the Leafs do decide to make a coaching change, there are several high-profile candidates available who could step in immediately.

Pete DeBoer stands out as a strong option. He has a proven track record of turning teams into contenders quickly and has consistently found playoff success. His structured systems could provide the stability Toronto has lacked this season.

Gerard Gallant is another experienced name who has had success early in his tenures with multiple teams. Known for his ability to connect with players, Gallant could bring a fresh voice and help re-energize the locker room.

Then there’s Bruce Cassidy, one of the most respected coaches in the league. His emphasis on defensive structure and attention to detail could address some of Toronto’s biggest weaknesses, particularly in high-pressure situations.

If the Leafs want to go in a different direction, David Carle offers an intriguing alternative. As one of the top young coaches in hockey, Carle represents a new-school approach focused on development and modern systems. Hiring him would signal a long-term vision rather than a quick fix.

What Comes Next for Toronto

The future of Berube in Toronto will likely be tied to the hiring of the next general manager. When a new GM is brought in, it’s common practice for them to choose their own coach, which could seal Berube’s fate.

For now, Berube remains behind the bench, but the pressure is undeniable. The Leafs are a team built to contend, not one that watches the playoffs from home. After already making a significant change at the top, it’s fair to wonder if another is coming.

If Toronto is serious about turning things around, Berube could very well be the next piece of the puzzle to change.

Next: Former Coach: Evan Bouchard Has Lifted McDavid and Draisaitl’s Game