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New Leafs Coach Decision: Who’s in Charge?

Toronto, CanadaWednesday, April 1, 2026
  • Keith Pelley, CEO of Toronto Maple Leafs Sports and Entertainment, stated that the future of head coach Craig Berube hinges on the next general manager.
  • Pelley emphasized that coaching roles are determined by the GM or president of hockey, not himself.
  • Berube will work closely with Brandon Pridham and Ryan Hardy until a new hockey leader is hired.
  • If the incoming GM recommends keeping Berube, the organization will follow that advice.

Context

  • The Leafs fired GM Brad Treliving just hours before a game against the Anaheim Ducks.
  • The team was already focused on avenging Auston Matthews' season‑ending injury.
  • Pelley clarified that Treliving’s departure was not solely his fault; after reviewing the year and speaking with key staff, ownership decided a new path was needed to reach a championship.

Uncertain Coaching Outlook

  • While some expected Berube to be let go when Treliving was dismissed, Pelley’s remarks suggest he will finish the regular season.
  • It remains unclear if Berube will return for next season’s opener.
  • After Monday’s game, Berube admitted the team fell short of expectations and that he feels they let the organization down.

Current Road Trip

  • The Leafs are on a road trip in California, set to play the San Jose Sharks this Thursday with kickoff at 10 p.m. EST.

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