The Toronto Maple Leafs have announced that assistant coach Guy Boucher will not return next season. This decision comes amid significant coaching staff changes following their elimination from the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs. The team has dismissed head coach Sheldon Keefe, appointing Craig Berube as his replacement, and also hired Lane Lambert as an assistant coach.
Boucher, 52, was hired by the Leafs in 2023 and served for just one season. Before his stint in Toronto, he was the head coach of the Ottawa Senators from 2016 to 2019 and the Tampa Bay Lightning from 2010 to 2013. Between his NHL coaching roles, Boucher coached Bern SC in the Swiss-A League from 2013 to 2016. His overall NHL coaching record stands at 191-186-46.
During his time with the Leafs, Boucher oversaw the team’s power play, which was ranked seventh in the league during the regular season. However, the power play struggled significantly in the playoffs, going just 1 for 21 against the Boston Bruins. This inefficiency contributed to the Leafs’ series loss in another Game 7 disappointment. The Leafs’ management appears to be initiating major changes, starting with the coaching staff.
Potential Replacement: Could Marc Savard Join the Leafs?
The Maple Leafs have yet to name a replacement for Boucher. Marc Savard, who recently parted ways with the Calgary Flames, is considered a potential candidate. Savard has a coaching history with Berube in St. Louis, which initially fueled speculation about his joining the Leafs. However, Lambert’s hiring seemed to set the coaching lineup, making Savard’s addition less likely at that time.
With Boucher’s departure, a coaching position has reopened, and Savard is once again a strong contender. While Savard’s power play strategies struggled in Calgary, the Flames lack the offensive talent that the Leafs possess. If Savard joins Toronto, he would have the opportunity to work with a more skilled offensive roster, potentially allowing him to better utilize his offensive strategies and knowledge.
The Leafs’ management seems committed to restructuring the coaching staff to address the team’s shortcomings and improve their chances in future playoff runs. Whether Savard or another candidate takes over Boucher’s role, the focus will undoubtedly be on enhancing the team’s performance and achieving playoff success.
