The Toronto Maple Leafs are in the process of reshaping their front office, with expectations that former team captain Mats Sundin and ex-Arizona Coyotes general manager John Chayka will be introduced in the coming days. While nothing is official yet, there have been no indications that the organization's plans to add these two individuals have deviated from course.
Potential Additions to the Leafs' Front Office
According to reports, the Maple Leafs have cast a wider net than initially expected. Among those interviewed were Scott White, Evan Gold, Ryan Martin, and Mike Futa. Additionally, MLSE president and CEO Keith Pelley attempted to speak with Tampa Bay Lightning general manager Julien BriseBois, but the Lightning denied permission, as reported by Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman on his 32 Thoughts podcast.
BriseBois has been the Lightning's GM since 2018, leading the team to two Stanley Cup victories. However, the Lightning have not advanced beyond the first round since 2022, when they lost in the Cup final to the Colorado Avalanche.
Implications for the Leafs' Coaching Staff
If Chayka joins the front office, one of his first tasks will be to decide whether to retain head coach Craig Berube. Berube has two years remaining on his contract, which could provide some job security, but new general managers often prefer to hire their own coach. If Berube stays, his position will be under intense scrutiny from the start of the 2026-27 regular season.
The Maple Leafs are also expected to make other front office cuts as part of the restructuring.
