The Toronto Maple Leafs are entering a major phase in their rebuild under general manager John Chayka, and the search for a new head coach is expected to be both extensive and strategic. According to Elliotte Friedman on the latest episode of the 32 Thoughts Podcast, the Leafs are seriously considering David Carle, the University of Denver head coach, despite his reluctance to leave the NCAA for the NHL.
Carle, 44, has built a strong reputation in college hockey, leading Denver to a 102-32-5 record over three seasons and a Frozen Four appearance in 2024. His success has not gone unnoticed, with the Leafs reportedly having initial conversations with him. While Carle has no immediate plans to leave the Pioneers, the lure of a top-tier NHL organization with deep financial resources could change his mind.
The Maple Leafs’ financial flexibility could increase if Craig Berube is hired as the Edmonton Oilers’ next head coach. Toronto currently carries a $3.5 million cap hit for the remainder of Berube’s contract through the 2026-27 season. If the Oilers take over that obligation, the Leafs gain more room to offer a competitive coaching package.
Other names in the mix include Jay Woodcroft, who led the Oilers to a Stanley Cup Final appearance in 2024, and Manny Malhotra, who served as an assistant with the New York Rangers and has NHL playing experience. Bruce Cassidy, who won a Stanley Cup with the Boston Bruins in 2022, is under contract with the Vegas Golden Knights and is unlikely to leave unless the Knights allow him to explore other opportunities.
Kris Knoblauch is also a candidate to watch. The Edmonton assistant coach led the Oilers to back-to-back Stanley Cup Finals and has extensive NHL experience as both a player and a coach. His familiarity with high-stakes playoff hockey could be a major asset for the Leafs.
Chayka has made it clear he is not limiting the search to any one profile. The Leafs are looking for a coach who can build a culture, develop young players, and compete in the loaded Atlantic Division. With the team’s top prospects like Raffi Toussaint, Timothy Liljegren, and Nick Robertson ready to contribute, the right coaching hire could set the tone for the next chapter in Toronto.
The Leafs are expected to make a decision in the coming weeks, with the 2026-27 season just months away.
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