What happened: Patrick Roy and Peter Laviolette are part of this week's stage of interviews as the Toronto Maple Leafs continue their search for a new head coach, according to TSN's Darren Dreger. The two veteran bench bosses join a candidate pool the Leafs have been working through since the position opened earlier this offseason.
Why it matters: Toronto is looking for a new voice behind the bench after firing Craig Berube, and the names now surfacing carry significant NHL pedigree. Reporting this week indicated Roy interviewed well and is considered a legitimate candidate, raising the stakes on a hire that will shape the franchise's direction heading into the 2025-26 season.
What to watch: Watch for the Leafs to move from interviews toward a shortlist, with any confirmed hire expected to clarify the team's offseason plan and roster approach.