The incoming hockey boss for the Toronto Maple Leafs will have little downtime this summer, with a daunting to-do list that extends well beyond the future of captain Auston Matthews. If the team hopes to return to the Stanley Cup playoffs next season, swift and decisive action is required. Even then, becoming a legitimate Cup contender in 2026-27 is far from guaranteed, regardless of whether the new front-office leader is John Chayka, Scott White, or another candidate.
Potential Role for Mats Sundin
According to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, a decision regarding Mats Sundin's potential role with the club could come this week. There have been indications that Sundin may take on more than an advisory position, possibly joining the front office in a significant capacity.
Priority: Matthews and Nylander
Determining Matthews' intentions remains the top priority, as he has been captain for two seasons. A sit-down with William Nylander is also essential. However, these are just the beginning of a lengthy list of challenges.
Craig Berube's Future
Coach Craig Berube's future is uncertain. The Leafs could have fired him after the season without backlash. Roster construction contributed to the team's struggles, but Berube's inability to address ongoing issues was a major factor in their dismal season. With coaches like Bruce Cassidy available, the Leafs cannot delay a decision on Berube much longer.
Defensive Corps Overhaul
The defense requires significant attention. Trading Morgan Rielly, who would need to waive his no-movement clause, and signing Darren Raddysh is not a simple fix. Rielly expects a conversation about his future. Questions also surround Chris Tanev, who will be 37 and recovering from groin surgery. Brandon Carlo's modified no-trade clause narrows to three teams, making a trade possible. Jake McCabe (32) and Oliver Ekman-Larsson (34) have struggled with age and speed. The Leafs need to become quicker and more cohesive defensively, with limited prospects like Ben Danford or William Villeneuve ready to step in.
Second-Line Centre Concerns
John Tavares had a productive offensive season with 31 goals and 71 points, but his defensive play was a liability. He was on the ice for 65 goals against at five-on-five, a significant increase from the previous season. Reducing his ice time could benefit both him and the team.
Goaltending Depth
Goaltending is another area of concern. Anthony Stolarz and Joseph Woll form an effective tandem when healthy, but both have injury histories. Artur Akhtyamov and Dennis Hildeby have performed well in the AHL playoffs, with Hildeby making 29 saves in a series-clinching win. Stolarz's extension begins in 2026-27, Woll has two years left, and Hildeby will require waivers. The Leafs must decide whether to carry three goalies or resolve the situation before the season.
The new GM faces a monumental task, with no easy solutions in sight.
