The Toronto Maple Leafs were expecting to build on a division-winning campaign, but the 2025-26 season slowly unraveled into one of the organization’s most disappointing ones in recent memory.
A sharp decline in results, growing system concerns, and defensive failure eventually led to Craig Berube’s dismissal after only two seasons behind the bench. This decision was taken by new general manager John Chayka, who is now leading the management with Leafs legend Mats Sundin in a supporting role. Their new goal is to find a coach capable of reconnecting the roster with its offensive identity, since they hold the No. 1 overall pick in 2026.
This search has already expanded across several high-profile names around the league.
Jay Woodcroft Emerging as Key Maple Leafs Coaching Candidate Amid Kings’ Interest
Former Oilers head coach Jay Woodcroft has quickly become one of the most discussed names connected to Toronto’s coaching vacancy. While the Maple Leafs continue evaluating multiple options, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman recently indicated that Woodcroft is expected to receive serious consideration from the organization.
Speaking on the “32 Thoughts” podcast, Friedman explained that the Los Angeles Kings are also expected to pursue Woodcroft aggressively because of his previous connection with executive Ken Holland.
Friedman said, “As I mentioned with LA, I think they’re very interested in Cassidy. I also would suspect they’re going to have to speak to Jay Woodcroft now. Nobody knows Woodcroft better than Ken Holland. I’ve got to think he’s going to be a factor in their conversation.” He later added, “And while I don’t think, as I said earlier, that Cassidy is going to be a big factor in Toronto, I do think Woodcroft is going to be interviewed by Toronto too.”
This update creates a potential bidding battle between two franchises attempting to move in different directions after disappointing seasons. Toronto is searching for a modern, offensive-minded coach who can maximize stars like Auston Matthews and William Nylander. At the same time, Los Angeles continues trying to push deeper into the Western Conference playoff picture.
Woodcroft’s reputation around the league largely centers on his communication style and offensive structure. During his time in Edmonton, the Oilers produced elite offensive numbers with Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl leading the attack. Toronto’s front office reportedly values that background after the Leafs struggled to generate consistent offense under Berube’s heavier defensive approach.
The organizational transition underway in Toronto also closely aligns with Woodcroft’s developmental strengths. Chayka and senior adviser Sundin are overseeing a broader reset after the team missed the playoffs for the first time since 2016.
With Toronto unexpectedly winning the 2026 NHL Draft Lottery, the next head coach will immediately inherit the responsibility of integrating projected top pick Gavin McKenna into the lineup.
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This responsibility could significantly influence the final decision. Woodcroft has built a reputation for working closely with younger talent and implementing player-friendly systems that encourage creativity and puck possession. These qualities stand in contrast to the more rigid structure Toronto used during its collapse last season.
Although other names like Bruce Cassidy, Manny Malhotra, David Carle, and John Gruden remain connected to the vacancy, Friedman’s latest comments suggest Woodcroft is firmly positioned among the most realistic options currently under consideration.
