In a stunning move, the Toronto Maple Leafs have dismissed head coach Craig Berube, the team announced on Wednesday. The decision marks another significant shake-up for the franchise following a disappointing 2025-26 season that saw them miss the playoffs for the first time since 2016-17.
Berube's Tenure Ends After Two Seasons
Berube, 60, posted an 84-62-18 record over two seasons after replacing Sheldon Keefe, who was fired on May 9, 2024. He was hired in 2024 with strong credentials, having led the St. Louis Blues to their first-ever Stanley Cup title in 2019. However, the Maple Leafs finished last in the Atlantic Division and 15th in the Eastern Conference with a 32-36-14 record, ending the season on a seven-game losing streak (0-6-1).
GM John Chayka Speaks on the Decision
General Manager John Chayka, recently appointed after Brad Treliving's dismissal, stated that players were not consulted about the firing. He released a statement saying, "Craig is a tremendous coach and an even better person. This decision is more reflective of an organizational shift and an opportunity for a fresh start than it is an evaluation of Craig. We are grateful for his leadership, professionalism, and commitment to the Maple Leafs organization and wish Craig and his family nothing but the best moving forward."
Team Performance and Playoff Drought
The Maple Leafs' decline was steep: last season they won the Atlantic Division with 108 points (52-26-4) and defeated the Ottawa Senators in the first round before losing to the eventual Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers in seven games in the second round. Toronto has advanced past the opening round only twice since 2004 and has not won a Stanley Cup since 1967.
Search for a New Coach
Chayka emphasized that prior NHL coaching experience would be considered but not required. "Experience in the NHL in larger markets could be an asset, and will be weighed, but I wouldn't discount anything at this time," he said. He added that the team must have an organizational vision on how they play and the things they value, and align on that through the hiring process.
The Maple Leafs now hold the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming draft and a new leadership group tasked with restoring the team to contention. Berube's replacement will likely define the next phase of the team's long-term rebuild.
