Pete DeBoer still feels like a natural option as teams start reviewing their coaching situations late in the season. Even without an NHL bench role right now, he remains involved and ready for the next step.
With pressure building in a few markets, it seems likely that experienced coaches like him will draw attention. This makes his current position and future plans worth following closely.
Pete DeBoer Explains the NHL Coaching Hiring Process Amid Maple Leafs Rumors
Pete DeBoer recently served as an assistant coach for Team Canada at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan. He served under Jon Cooper, handling defensive and penalty-kill duties. He is currently open for NHL coaching opportunities after being let go by the Dallas Stars in June 2025.
During an appearance on “Leafs Morning Take,” DeBoer explained how the coaching hiring process usually works and how teams reach out. He said, “My history with this stuff has been typically a manager will reach out to you directly. You’re not really dealing with agents as much as you are with players.”
He also addressed the number of coaching changes that happen each season and how this year has followed a similar pattern. At the same time, he made it clear he is not waiting for jobs to open up. He said, “I’m really not sitting here, you know, crossing my fingers that somebody gets fired. I know it’s inevitable and there will be positions open up.”
READ MORE: Nathan MacKinnon Already Plotting Revenge Vs. Dallas Stars’ Jake Oettinger For Stanley Cup Playoffs
DeBoer added that he is open to different paths when the right opportunity comes along. He said, “I’ve got to see what comes at me. And, you know, I’m open to anything.” His focus remains on finding a situation that fits rather than making a quick return.
The situation around the Toronto Maple Leafs continues to draw attention, as expectations took a big hit this year. The team has struggled this season for the first time since 2017, with a drop in form that has placed them near the bottom of the Atlantic Division.
There are also growing concerns about the relationship between head coach Craig Berube and management, along with issues such as poor special teams and overall team confidence. Any change could bring experienced coaches like DeBoer into the discussion. His track record includes 17 NHL seasons and deep playoff runs, including appearances in the Stanley Cup Final.
DeBoer also spoke about how his role with Team Canada has kept him connected to high-level coaching. He said, “When I was behind the bench at the Olympics, you know, you get the juices flowing again, you get excited again.” He also noted that playoff hockey is the part of the game he misses most.
His time with Dallas included three straight Western Conference Final appearances, but internal concerns and playoff outcomes led the team to move in a different direction.
For now, DeBoer continues to wait for his next NHL opportunity. His name is expected to remain part of the conversation as teams review their coaching positions.
