The Toronto Maple Leafs remain in a period of transition, with general manager John Chayka facing several major decisions in the weeks ahead, including the search for a new head coach, possible roster changes, the 2026 NHL draft, and free agency planning. The coaching search has been underway for more than a month since Craig Berube was fired, and one major question is whether Bruce Cassidy could become available now that the Stanley Cup Final has ended. The article argues that Chayka should quickly contact Vegas Golden Knights general manager Kelly McCrimmon to determine whether Cassidy, widely viewed as the best unemployed coach in the NHL, could be interviewed. Other names linked to the search include Patrick Roy, Dallas Eakins, Jay Woodcroft, and Joe Pavelski, but the piece suggests Cassidy would be the strongest candidate. It also advises the Leafs to avoid John Tortorella, even if he were to become available, citing his limited playoff success over the past two decades.
Beyond coaching, the Leafs are also dealing with the possibility of changes on defense. Veteran Morgan Rielly, who ranks seventh in franchise history in games played with 951, has been the subject of discussion between Chayka and his agent, J.P. Barry. However, nothing appears close to a trade. Toronto has not made Rielly a trade proposal, and Rielly has not submitted a list of preferred destinations. He has four years left on his contract, including a full no-movement clause over the next two seasons. While there has been speculation about a possible swap involving Edmonton Oilers defenseman Darnell Nurse, the article says that deal would not make sense for Toronto, particularly because Nurse is also expensive and would not help the Leafs get younger or stronger defensively.
The 2026 NHL draft, set for June 26 in Buffalo, is another major focal point. The article says the Leafs should at least listen to offers for the No. 1 overall pick, but should not trade it unless an exceptional offer appears. The consensus expectation is that Toronto will select winger Gavin McKenna, though winger Ivar Stenberg is also presented as a viable option. The Leafs will also have six selections in Rounds 2 through 7, giving their scouting staff a chance to find value later in the draft.
Looking ahead to July 1 and unrestricted free agency, Toronto is said to be about $22 million under the salary cap. Still, the article warns that cap space alone will not solve the team’s problems. Forward Alex Tuch and defenseman Darren Raddysh are identified as key potential free-agent targets, while Rasmus Andersson and Jacob Trouba are mentioned as possible additions on defense. The article also suggests the Leafs could consider re-signing Bobby McMann, who scored 29 goals in 2025-26 after being traded to Seattle. Other names mentioned as possible depth or scoring options include Boone Jenner, Mason Marchment, and Jack Roslovic. Finally, Toronto must make decisions on restricted free agents Nick Robertson, Matias Maccelli, and Jacob Quillan as the offseason unfolds.
