The Toronto Maple Leafs head into the 2025–26 season in a different place than they’ve been in years past. Instead of making minor tweaks or bargain-bin signings, the organization has taken on a new philosophy—one that reflects a deeper alignment between the front office and the coaching staff. With Craig Berube now firmly in place behind the bench, and with Brad Treliving continuing to shape the roster, there’s a sense that Toronto’s identity is shifting toward a harder, more balanced style of hockey.
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This transition hasn’t gone unnoticed by fans or media. The Maple Leafs have long been criticized for being too top-heavy, overly reliant on their stars, and lacking the grit and depth necessary to navigate the grueling demands of the playoffs. The early moves this offseason suggest that those criticisms are finally being addressed. Whether or not it leads to better results come spring remains to be seen, but for now, there’s an optimism that this group is being built with more purpose.
Item One: Craig Berube’s Fingerprints Are All Over the Maple Leafs’ Offseason
One of the most significant shifts in Toronto this summer isn’t just in the roster—it’s in the philosophy behind how it’s being built. Head coach Berube is clearly having an imprint on the Maple Leafs’ makeup, and that’s by design.
As Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment president and CEO, Keith Pelley explained after parting ways with Brendan Shanahan, Berube will be more involved in shaping the team. “I’m a firm believer that the coach has to be involved more than just on the day of the game and in the dressing room,” Pelley said. “I have my utmost confidence in Brad (Treliving) and my utmost confidence in Craig.”
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That philosophy is already evident. This offseason, general manager Treliving didn’t just add character veterans to keep things light in the locker room. Instead, the new signings reflect the hard-edged, competitive style Berube has long valued. The message is clear:…
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