Toronto Maple Leafs focus on prospects and coaching endorsement amid staff changes

The Toronto Maple Leafs are evaluating three young prospects—forward Miroslav Holinka, defender Noah Chadwick and forward Samuel Hlavaj—who could make their NHL debut in the 2026‑27 season. Holinka, a 20‑year‑old Czech forward drafted in the fifth round of the 2024 draft, posted 20 goals and 21 assists for 41 points with HC Oceláři Třinec’s U20 team, then recorded 37 goals and 43 assists in the WHL before appearing in one AHL game with the Toronto Marlies. The club expects him to start the season in the AHL and may call him up if injuries arise.

Separately, former Maple Leafs forward Zach Hyman publicly endorsed the hiring of former Leafs head coach Mike Babcock by the Edmonton Oilers. Hyman praised Babcock’s work with young players in Toronto and welcomed the NHL‑PA cleared investigation outcome. Oilers captain Connor McDavid also supported the move, citing Babcock’s extensive experience and success. The Oilers have also added former Leafs assistant D.J. Smith to Babcock’s staff, while the Leafs appointed Jim Hiller as head coach after replacing Craig Berube.