Maple Leafs in 'final phases' of coaching search, says GM John Chayka

June 16, 2026 - 1:45pm

Maple Leafs GM John Chayka gives the latest update on the organization's coaching search, says we're on the last phase, getting down to decision time, and an announcement should be coming in the next few days.

As the NHL's coaching carousel continues to turn, the Toronto Maple Leafs seem to be nearing the end of their ride.

Maple Leafs general manager John Chayka told reporters on Tuesday that the team should have its hire "in the next several days."

Since firing head coach Craig Berube last month, the Leafs, under Chayka and senior executive advisor Mats Sundin, have conducted a thorough search, ranging from more experienced names like Patrick Roy and Peter Laviolette — who was hired by the Los Angeles Kings last week — to less proven options like Joe Pavelski.

But after cutting down their list of candidates from 20, per Chayka, the team is entering the "final phases" of its search for a new bench boss.

"It's been a pretty thorough process so far, and we've taken our time with it. We've had some in-person meetings recently and we're getting down to decision time," Chayka said.

Toronto is entering a pivotal off-season, holding the No. 1 pick in the 2026 draft on June 26, on the heels of a disappointing season that saw it finish last in the Atlantic Division and miss the playoffs for the first time since 2016.

Earlier Tuesday, the Stanley Cup runner-up Vegas Golden Knights announced that head coach John Tortorella would not be returning. They joined the Leafs and Edmonton Oilers as the final three teams still looking for a head coach this off-season.