Three potential landing spots for Craig Berube following Maple Leafs dismissal

Craig Berube’s dismissal by the Toronto Maple Leafs was not particularly surprising. The 60-year-old had been one of the NHL’s top hot-seat candidates for most of the 2025-26 season, especially from January onwards, as the team struggled through a disappointing campaign that ended with a 32-36-14 record and a missed playoff berth.

Now a free agent after just two seasons behind the bench in Toronto, Berube brings a proven track record that includes guiding the St. Louis Blues to their first Stanley Cup in 2019. His reputation for demanding accountability from star players positions him well for a quick return to an NHL head-coaching role.

Edmonton Oilers

The Oilers could be an intriguing fit for Berube given his championship pedigree. Having already led one franchise to a title, he understands what it takes to elevate a team with high expectations and elite talent.

Edmonton has been searching for a coach who will push its star players harder, and Berube’s style aligns with that need. His experience managing egos while maintaining structure could help the Oilers take the next step in their pursuit of a Stanley Cup.

The Calahoo, Alberta native would also bring familiarity with the Canadian market and the pressures that come with it. Many observers see parallels to other recent coaching transitions in the organization.

Berube’s no-nonsense approach worked wonders in St. Louis, where he turned a struggling squad into champions. That same mindset could resonate in Edmonton as the team looks to build on recent playoff appearances.

Observers note that the Oilers front office values coaches who can maximize superstar production without sacrificing defensive responsibility. Berube has shown he can deliver both.

Los Angeles Kings

The Kings remain in a transitional phase after firing Jim Hiller in March and turning to interim coach D.J. Smith. Smith guided the team to an 11-6-6 finish and a playoff appearance, but his long-term status is uncertain.

With the organization reportedly denied permission to speak with Bruce Cassidy, Los Angeles appears open to exploring other experienced options. Berube could step in as a steady hand during the post-Anze Kopitar era.

His ability to instill discipline and get the most out of veteran leaders would suit a Kings roster that values structure. The move would also mark a fresh start for a franchise aiming to sustain competitiveness in the Pacific Division.

Berube’s track record of playoff success makes him an appealing candidate for a team that has reached the postseason but seeks deeper runs. He could help bridge the gap as younger players take on larger roles.

Internal discussions within the Kings organization likely emphasize finding a coach who balances accountability with player development. Berube checks both boxes based on his previous stops.

New Jersey Devils

Berube could replace Sheldon Keefe for the second time in his career if the Devils decide to make a change. The humorous coincidence would not be lost on Maple Leafs fans, but the fit makes strategic sense for New Jersey.

The Devils underperformed this season and missed the playoffs despite high expectations. With a new general manager in Sunny Mehta now leading the front office, a coaching shakeup feels possible as the team aims to become true contenders.

Berube’s championship experience and demanding style could accelerate New Jersey’s development. He has a history of quickly turning around underachieving groups, something the Devils would welcome.

The addition of a proven winner like Berube would signal serious intent to contend in the Eastern Conference. His presence could also help stabilize a roster that showed flashes of potential but lacked consistency.

Mehta’s strategic additions to the front office suggest a willingness to make bold moves. Hiring Berube would fit that aggressive approach toward building a championship-caliber team.

Berube’s resume speaks for itself, and these three clubs represent logical destinations where his leadership could have an immediate impact. As the offseason unfolds, expect his name to surface quickly in coaching discussions around the league.