Toronto Maple Leafs’ Coaching Search Focuses on David Carle
The Toronto Maple Leafs’ search for their next bench boss continues at a measured pace following Craig Berube’s recent dismissal, though the organization appears to be zeroing in on specific candidates as potential replacements. According to NHL analyst Elliotte Friedman, the club has begun focusing its recruitment efforts on David Carle, the long-time head coach at the University of Denver, while seemingly distancing itself from other options.
Friedman suggested on the Donnie & Dhali program that the Leafs are making deliberate efforts to pique Carle’s interest in the position, though he stopped short of confirming whether formal conversations have commenced. The 36-year-old Carle has spent 17 years in various roles with the Pioneers program, serving as head coach since 2016 and establishing himself as a respected figure in collegiate hockey.
Other Candidates and Organizational Direction
Meanwhile, Bruce Cassidy, who previously led the Vegas Golden Knights to playoff success, appears unlikely to become Toronto’s next head coach, according to Friedman’s assessment. Despite Cassidy’s continued appeal around the league, the analyst expressed skepticism about whether the match makes sense for either party, noting that preliminary inquiries may not have even been initiated between the organization and the veteran coach’s representatives.
There has been speculation that Carle might be waiting to gauge potential opportunities with the Colorado Avalanche should their current coaching situation shift, but Friedman indicated that the Leafs are nonetheless actively trying to position themselves as an attractive destination. The franchise continues evaluating first-time NHL head coaching candidates as it looks to fill what would be the 42nd coaching position in franchise history.
