Toronto’s new general manager, John Chayka, announced the move on Wednesday morning, citing an “organizational shift.”

“Craig is a tremendous coach and an even better person,” Chayka said. “This decision is more reflective of an organizational shift and an opportunity for a fresh start than it is an evaluation of Craig. We are grateful for his leadership, professionalism and commitment to the Maple Leafs organization and wish Craig and his family nothing but the best moving forward.” 

Hired before the start of the 2024-25 season, Berube led the Maple Leafs to an Atlantic Division title in his first season with 108 points. Toronto would move on to the second round for just the second time since the 2003-04 season before losing to the Florida Panthers.

What followed was a season that fell short of those expectations. Toronto finished last in the Atlantic with just 78 points. The 30-point difference was the largest season-over-season point drop in franchise history. 

This led the team to fire general manager Brad Treliving just before the season ended. With Chayka leading the way, Toronto is looking to quickly turn things around in what could be seen as an effort to keep franchise star Auston Matthews from leaving when his contract is up in two years. 

They also have the first overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. Though it won’t be decided until the draft on June 26, the expectation is that Toronto will select Penn State forward Gavin McKenna number one. 

The Maple Leafs say that the search for the team’s 42nd head coach is already underway, and that the next coach will decide who is on the rest of the staff. Current assistants on the staff include Derek Lalonde, Mike Van Ryn, and Steve Sullivan.