Maple Leafs Linked to Surprising NCAA Coach As Decision Nears

The Toronto Maple Leafs are entering the final stage of their head coaching search, and an unexpected and previously unreported coach has emerged as a legitimate candidate late in the process.

After parting ways with Craig Berube following a disappointing 2025-26 season, the Leafs have conducted an extensive search under new general manager John Chayka.

Toronto has been connected to several established names, including former NHL head coaches and former players, during the past few weeks and after the end of the regular season.

Now, according to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, a surprising candidate from the college ranks has entered the mix.

"Different names - some unique, some familiar - have been linked to this search, from David Carle to Dallas Eakins to Peter Laviolette to Joe Pavelski," Friedman reported. "Here's another: Pat Ferschweiler."

Ferschweiler, 56, has spent the past five seasons as head coach at Western Michigan and led the program to a national championship in 2025.

The emergence of Ferschweiler stands out given the other candidates linked to the role and the differences in their resumes. That said, his background includes time at the professional level, having served as an assistant coach with the NHL's Detroit Red Wings and a stint with the AHL's Grand Rapids Griffins.

Another name in Toronto's coaching search:https://t.co/ntCXXppuZJ

— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) June 16, 2026

Friedman indicated that the Maple Leafs have kept much of their process private and that additional candidates could still surface before a final decision is made.

"The Maple Leafs have done a pretty good job of keeping several contenders' names out of the limelight," Friedman wrote.

However, Chayka confirmed the process is nearing its conclusion, which might limit potential additions to those already in the running for the position.

"We're in the final phases," Chayka said. "We've had some in-person meetings recently and we're getting down to decision time. Should be in the next several days."

As Chayka acknowledged, the Maple Leafs are expected to name their next head coach in the coming days, with the hire likely to be finalized before the NHL Draft takes place on June 26-27.

Related: Red Wings' Dylan Larkin Trade Situation Evolves With New Teams Linked

Related: Mitch Marner's Stanley Cup Final Stats Draw Attention After Golden Knights' Loss

Copyright 2026 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved

This story was originally published June 17, 2026 at 7:30 AM.