Another twist in Maple Leafs’ head coaching search!

Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman believes that veteran head coach Craig Berube is the front-runner to become the Toronto Maple Leafs’ next bench boss.

“Until I am told otherwise, I believe that Berube is their guy,” Friedman said on the latest episode of 32 Thoughts: The Podcast. “It’s just a matter of what is the process to get there.”

Since Berube might be in high demand, since he’s also been interviewed by the Winnipeg Jets and New Jersey Devils, there is another candidate that has just come in. Per Friedman, Gerard Gallant has also talked to the organization about their head coaching vacancy.

“I have heard that Gallant had spoken to the Maple Leafs, and I would assume he’s spoken to other teams as well… He is exactly the kind of coach [Maple Leafs general manager] Brad Treliving would be interested in.”

There was also mention of former Los Angeles Kings head coach Todd McLellan, who been spoken to about the opportunity of coaching in Toronto.

The three experienced men are great options and could be exactly what the Maple Leafs need after parting with Sheldon Keefe following the team’s postseason elimination.

There is however rumours of the Leafs’ interest in speaking with long-time Carolina Hurricanes head coach Rod Brind’Amour, who remains without a contract heading into next season.

The Canes were ousted of the playoffs in six games by the New York Rangers last night and some pundits believe it could be time for a new voice in Raleigh.

“I have told you before that the best source I have on this believes that this is going to work out,” Friedman said on the podcast. “But this person also believes they can’t believe it got to this point and says it’s really a bad thing for the organization that it exploded between the first and second round of the playoffs.”

“The feeling is [Brind’Amour] wants to stay there. His family is there, they’re all happy there,” Friedman added. “I think teams are going to ask. I think New Jersey will definitely ask, but I think everybody is going to look into it.”

The many available spots for coaching jobs across the league will definitely play into the Maple Leafs’ decision.

Who would you prefer to see behing Toronto’s bench next season?

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