Toronto Maple Leafs part ways with Craig Berube

The Toronto Maple Leafs have made a significant move in their ongoing reset, relieving head coach Craig Berube of his duties on May 13, 2026.[1][2] General manager John Chayka announced the decision, emphasizing it as part of a broader organizational shift rather than a personal failing on Berube’s part. This comes after a disappointing season where the Leafs finished with a 32-36-14 record.[1]

Chayka praised Berube’s leadership in a press release, stating, “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.”[2] The move aligns with recent front-office changes, signaling Toronto’s desire for a new direction ahead of key offseason discussions.

The official announcement

Toronto Maple Leafs GM John Chayka broke the news via an official press release on NHL.com, confirming the parting of ways with Berube after meetings over the weekend involving senior executive advisor Mats Sundin. The decision was finalized following extensive discussions about the roster and team direction. Insiders like Darren Dreger reported that Berube spent hours with Chayka and Sundin on Saturday, but the new regime opted for a clean slate.

This isn’t entirely unexpected. Rumors had swirled since Brad Treliving’s firing in March, with speculation that Berube could be next. The Leafs’ stylistic mismatch with Berube’s approach became evident as injuries and roster issues plagued the 2025-26 season. Despite MLSE CEO Keith Pelley’s support, the push for change won out.

Fan reactions poured in immediately on social media, with many citing the need for alignment between coach and core players. The official Leafs Twitter account shared the announcement, drawing thousands of responses.[3] Pundits like Elliotte Friedman highlighted how this allows Chayka to imprint his vision early in his tenure.

The timing, just weeks after the playoffs, gives Toronto a head start in the coaching market. Other teams like the Los Angeles Kings are also shopping, intensifying the competition.

Berube’s tenure in Toronto

Craig Berube arrived in Toronto ahead of the 2024-25 season, signing a four-year deal under then-GM Brad Treliving to replace Sheldon Keefe. Berube brought pedigree as the 2019 Stanley Cup champion coach with the St. Louis Blues. That first year showed promise, with the Leafs pushing to Game 7 of the second round against Florida.

However, the 2025-26 campaign unraveled. Injuries sidelined key players, and the team struggled stylistically under Berube’s physical, structured system. They missed the playoffs, finishing well out of contention. Berube wasn’t solely to blame—roster construction played a role—but the fit wasn’t there.

Berube compiled a respectable record in his two seasons, but Toronto’s high expectations demand more. His contract still has two years left at $4.5 million annually, meaning the Leafs remain financially committed unless he lands elsewhere soon.[1]

Pierre LeBrun noted on Twitter: “Berube had two more years on his deal paying him $4.5M per so the Leafs still on the hook for that unless Berube gets hired elsewhere.” This buyout adds to Toronto’s cap challenges.

Berube’s reputation remains strong league-wide. At 60, his experience makes him a desirable candidate despite the Toronto exit.

Factors behind the coaching change

The firing stems from a cascade of changes. Treliving’s dismissal in March paved the way for Chayka and Sundin, hired earlier in May. The new duo met with Berube but prioritized a coach who matches their vision. Dreger reported: “Leafs management wanting to start with a clean slate.”

Roster dynamics factored in heavily. Stars like Auston Matthews demand a system that maximizes skill, and Berube’s grind-it-out style clashed amid injuries. The Leafs’ fall from playoff contention underscored the urgency.

This could tie into retaining Matthews, whose extension talks loom. A fresh coach might sway his decision, per rumors.

Organizational fatigue played a role too. Despite Pelley’s backing, the reset demanded bold action. ESPN analysis called it Chayka’s first major stamp.[1]

• Key issues during Berube’s run:
  • Poor regular-season finish: 32-36-14
  • Stylistic disconnect with high-skill core
  • Impact of injuries on key contributors
  • Previous deep playoff run not repeated

The path forward for the Maple Leafs

Toronto now joins the coaching carousel, with the Kings and possibly Edmonton Oilers also searching. Potential targets include Bruce Cassidy, still paid by Vegas, or first-time NHL head coaches.

Chayka’s media availability emphasized a deliberate process. “We are grateful for his leadership… and wish Craig and his family nothing but the best.”[2] The focus shifts to aligning coach, roster, and goals.

Roster tweaks loom, especially around Matthews. A new voice could revitalize the core.

Fan sites like Editor in Leaf celebrated the “guts” to act.[4] Sportsnet speculated on candidates fitting Chayka’s analytics background.

This reset positions Toronto for contention if executed well.

Berube’s next steps

Berube’s track record ensures quick interest. His Blues success and respect among peers position him well.

Teams needing structure might call first. Pierre LeBrun predicts a landing spot soon, easing Toronto’s buyout burden.

At 60, Berube eyes another Cup run. His Toronto stint, though brief, adds to his narrative.

League insiders like Friedman see him thriving elsewhere.

The move underscores NHL volatility—no coach is safe in win-now markets.

Toronto’s fresh start carries risks but offers reset potential. With Chayka steering, the Leafs aim to contend soon. Keeping Matthews and hiring the right coach will define success. Expect a busy summer north of the border.[5]