Toronto Maple Leafs dismiss coach Craig Berube after missing playoffs

The Toronto Maple Leafs announced on May 13, 2026 that head coach Craig Berube was relieved of his duties. General manager John Chayka said the move reflects “an organizational shift and an opportunity for a fresh start,” adding that the decision was not an evaluation of Berube’s character. Berube, who guided the team to a 108‑point, Atlantic‑division‑winning season and a second‑round playoff appearance in 2024‑25, saw the club finish last in the Atlantic Division with a 32‑36‑14 record and 78 points in 2025‑26, missing the postseason for the first time since 2015‑16.

Berube’s two‑year regular‑season record with Toronto was 84‑62‑18. The 2025‑26 decline was driven by a league‑worst 66‑shot margin per game, the second‑worst goals‑against tally (3.60 per game), power‑play struggles, and key injuries—including Auston Matthews’ season‑ending knee injury and the prior loss of Mitch Marner. Chayka, who joined the organization earlier in May, said players and coaching staff were not consulted before the firing. He emphasized that the next head coach will be chosen after a thorough search, with the team holding the first overall pick in the upcoming 2026 NHL Draft.

The decision sparked mixed reactions among fans, with some praising the “fresh start” and others arguing that coaching changes have not solved the Leafs’ deeper issues. The organization also promoted senior executive adviser Mats Sundin and confirmed that current assistant coaches remain under review.