Former NHL forward Pascal Rheaume has been named the new head coach of the Toronto Sceptres, the team announced on Wednesday. Rheaume, 54, brings 13 seasons of NHL playing experience to the role, having suited up for the New Jersey Devils, St. Louis Blues, Atlanta Thrashers, Chicago Blackhawks, and New York Rangers.
A seasoned player with a new challenge
Rheaume played 574 regular-season NHL games, recording 83 goals and 118 assists for 201 points. He also appeared in 61 playoff games, including a run to the Eastern Conference Finals with the Devils in 2003. Known for his defensive reliability and faceoff prowess, Rheaume transitioned to coaching after his playing career ended in 2008.
Coaching background
Prior to this appointment, Rheaume served as an assistant coach in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) with the Rimouski Oceanic and Shawinigan Cataractes. He also worked as a development coach for the Montreal Canadiens organization. This marks his first head coaching position at the professional level.
“I am thrilled to join the Toronto Sceptres and lead this talented group of players,” Rheaume said in a statement. “I look forward to bringing my experience and passion for the game to help the team succeed.”
Team expectations
The Sceptres, an expansion team set to debut in the 2026-27 season, have been building their roster and staff over the past year. General Manager Sarah Thompson expressed confidence in Rheaume’s ability to guide the team. “Pascal’s understanding of the game and his leadership qualities make him the ideal choice to be our first head coach,” she said.
Rheaume’s hiring comes as the Sceptres prepare for their inaugural training camp in September. The team will play its home games at Coca-Cola Coliseum in Toronto.
