Toronto Maple Leafs close in on new coach ahead of 2026 first‑overall draft pick

General manager John Chayka said the Leafs are in the "final phases" of a thorough head‑coach search and expect a decision within the next several days, hoping to install a coach before the NHL Entry Draft on June 26, 2026, where Toronto holds the first overall pick.

The new regime, led by GM Chayka and senior executive adviser Mats Sundin, also faces questions about its veteran core—Auston Matthews, William Nylander and John Tavares—who are under contract. The team must decide whether to trade any of those players to rebuild around the anticipated top prospect, forward Gavin McKenna, selected with the No. 1 pick.

Former Leafs veteran Brooks Laich cautioned that the club "can't win now," saying a major roster overhaul would be a hard sell to fans and that the organization must find a clear direction before the draft and beyond.