Maple Leafs Explore Coaching Options: David Carle in Focus as Bruce Cassidy Out

The Toronto Maple Leafs are taking their time in the search for a new head coach following the dismissal of Craig Berube earlier this month. As speculation continues to swirl, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman offered insights into the current state of the coaching hunt, particularly regarding two candidates: David Carle and Bruce Cassidy.

During a recent appearance on Donnie & Dhali, Friedman shared that while discussions are underway, there appears to be no urgency in the process. He reiterated his previous stance that he does not foresee Bruce Cassidy, the former head coach of the Vegas Golden Knights, being a fit for the Maple Leafs this offseason. “I think Bruce Cassidy’s stock is still good,” Friedman stated, but added, “I’m not convinced that Cassidy is going to end up in Toronto.”

Friedman further noted the lack of communication between the Maple Leafs and Cassidy, suggesting that there might not have been any formal inquiries made to the Golden Knights regarding a potential conversation. “I don’t even know that the Maple Leafs have asked [the Golden Knights] to talk to him, to be honest,” he remarked, casting further doubt on Cassidy’s candidacy.

Shifting focus to David Carle, currently the head coach of the Denver University Pioneers, Friedman indicated that the Maple Leafs are interested in the 36-year-old coach, who has been with the Pioneers since 2008-09 and has led the team for the past eight seasons. There are whispers connecting Carle to the Colorado Avalanche, who are facing a tough playoff series against the Golden Knights, with some speculating that he could be in line for a coaching change in Colorado.

However, Friedman emphasized that the Maple Leafs are keen to make Carle consider their offer, stating, “I think everybody’s trying to gauge what the possibility is really. I do think Toronto wants to make Carle at least think about them, and see if they can do that.” As the search continues, the Maple Leafs remain focused on finding the right leader to guide them in the upcoming season.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.