As the calendar hits the last weekend of May, several storylines are swirling around the Toronto Maple Leafs, from the ongoing coaching search to the future of veteran defenseman Morgan Rielly and the emergence of promising prospects.
Coaching Search: No Immediate Announcement Expected
It has been just over two weeks since the Leafs fired Craig Berube on May 13, yet the search for a new head coach seems to be taking its time. Despite rampant speculation, general manager John Chayka has emphasized that this will be "the most critical decision" of his tenure and that the organization will not rush the process.
Recent rumors suggested the Leafs were preparing to interview Anaheim Ducks assistant coach Jay Woodcroft, possibly this week. However, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, a top hockey insider, poured cold water on that idea during the "32 Thoughts" podcast, stating he does not believe the Leafs have asked the Ducks for permission to speak with Woodcroft, and it is possible they won't at all.
Some movement may occur in Buffalo, where Chayka is expected to attend the annual scouting combine. Yet, as speculation fills the void, no announcement appears imminent.
Morgan Rielly's Future: Discussions on Hold
Defenseman Morgan Rielly is currently representing Canada at the world men's hockey championship for the first time since 2016. The Leafs' plan has been to let him enjoy the tournament before engaging in discussions about his future, and that approach remains unchanged.
Rielly has recorded three assists in eight games for Canada, who face Finland in the semifinals. A win would set up a gold medal game against Switzerland or Norway on Sunday in Zurich. Rielly has four years remaining on his contract with an average annual value of $7.5 million US, including a full no-movement clause for the next two seasons.
If both sides agree that a change of scenery is best, the Leafs will need a solid backup plan. Despite defensive shortcomings, Rielly has averaged over 22 minutes per game for 13 seasons—ice time that is not easily replaced. Even signing a free agent like Darren Raddysh would not fully address the defensive issues, of which Rielly is only one part.
William Nylander has expressed his desire to stay in Toronto, and the Leafs have reportedly had positive talks with captain Auston Matthews about the team's future. A clearer picture of Rielly's future could emerge shortly after the world championship.
Prospect Pool: Koblar and Akhtyamov Shine
The common narrative that the Leafs lack prospects is being challenged by two emerging talents: forward Tinus Luc Koblar and goaltender Artur Akhtyamov.
Koblar, Toronto's second-round pick (64th overall) in the 2025 draft, has impressed at the world championship, scoring six goals and three assists in eight games for Norway. At 18 years old, his success is notable, especially after being named the top forward in the under-20 world championship Division 1 Group A, leading Norway to promotion. In 47 games with Leksands IF of the Swedish Hockey League, he had eight goals and six assists, but his international performance has elevated his prospect status.
Akhtyamov has taken over as the Toronto Marlies' starter during their unexpected Calder Cup playoff run. Through 12 games, he posted a .924 save percentage. Former GM Brad Treliving signed him to a three-year extension before being fired, with the last two years being one-way. Akhtyamov's play has accelerated his path to the NHL and has impacted Dennis Hildeby, who hasn't played since May 5.
Hildeby will require waivers next season, and the Leafs would likely not want to lose him for nothing. However, Akhtyamov's emergence could make the team more open to a trade. The organization boasts a solid goaltending group with Joseph Woll, Anthony Stolarz, Hildeby, and Akhtyamov, but keeping all four may not be practical. Chayka and executive Mats Sundin should explore the goaltending trade market, especially given Akhtyamov's performance.
For the Marlies, the playoff experience gained by youngsters like Easton Cowan and Ben Danford is invaluable and should benefit them at training camp in September.
