The Toronto Marlies have appointed Steven Sullivan as their new head coach, the American Hockey League team announced Wednesday. Sullivan, a native of Timmins, Ontario, returns to the AHL after serving as an assistant coach with the Toronto Maple Leafs for the past two seasons.
Sullivan's Coaching Career
Sullivan, 52, spent the 2024-25 and 2025-26 campaigns as an assistant under Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube. Prior to that, he was head coach of the AHL's Chicago Wolves from 2021 to 2024, leading the team to a 112-65-15 record and a Calder Cup playoff appearance in 2023. He also served as an assistant with the Nashville Predators from 2017 to 2021.
“Steven brings a wealth of experience and a winning pedigree to our organization,” said Marlies general manager Ryan Hardy in a statement. “His track record of developing players and his familiarity with the Maple Leafs' system make him the ideal candidate to lead our team.”
Playing Career
Before coaching, Sullivan played 15 seasons in the NHL with the New Jersey Devils, Toronto Maple Leafs, Chicago Blackhawks, and Nashville Predators, amassing 348 goals and 520 assists in 1,011 games. He won the Stanley Cup with the Devils in 1995.
“I'm thrilled to be back behind the bench in the AHL and to lead the Marlies,” Sullivan said. “Toronto is a special hockey market, and I'm excited to work with the young players and help them reach their potential.”
Sullivan replaces John Gruden, who was fired after the Marlies missed the playoffs in 2025-26. The Marlies finished with a 32-35-5 record last season, 11th in the AHL's Eastern Conference.
Impact on Player Development
The Marlies have been a key development affiliate for the Maple Leafs, producing players like William Nylander, Mitch Marner, and Auston Matthews. Sullivan's experience with young talent is expected to accelerate the progress of prospects such as 2024 first-round pick Ben Danford and goaltender Dennis Hildeby.
“Steven has a great eye for detail and a calm demeanor that resonates with players,” said Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving. “We're confident he'll help our prospects take the next step.”
The Marlies open the 2026-27 season on October 10 against the Belleville Senators.
