Toronto Maple Leafs NHL coaching search takes another turn with familiar face entering discussions

The Toronto Maple Leafs have reportedly added another name to their ongoing search for a new head coach. The latest name associated with the vacancy is former Toronto development architect and NHL bench boss Dallas Eakins, as the organization looks towards the 2026-27 season.

Toronto has been considering several possibilities after opening the job earlier this off-season. The franchise is being careful before a decision is made, with high hopes still surrounding captain Auston Matthews and a roster constructed to compete.

Toronto Maple Leafs interview Dallas Eakins for NHL head coach vacancy

The Toronto Maple Leafs have interviewed Dallas Eakins for their NHL head-coaching job. The interview adds another name to the ever-growing list of candidates being considered by the organization. Eakins is no stranger to Toronto, having spent a couple of years within the franchise before getting his first NHL head coaching opportunity.

He previously played with the Toronto Marlies, helped develop player development programs and worked directly with prospects who went on to play in the National Hockey League.

Dallas Eakins has two NHL coaching stints to his credit. He coached the Edmonton Oilers from 2013-15 before ultimately returning to the league with the Anaheim Ducks. Eakins’ stay in Anaheim was four seasons, leading a rebuilding roster and helping several young players through the early stages of their development.

After leaving the Ducks, Eakins went to Germany and is now the head coach and sporting director of Adler Mannheim in the Deutsche Eishockey Liga.

The Toronto Maple Leafs want a coach who can drive a Stanley Cup contender. The organization enters the offseason with a lot to look forward to, with high expectations for Auston Matthews and a core group expected to be competitive in the Eastern Conference.

Dallas Eakins is not likely the favourite, but he knows the franchise and its long history of player development. The search continues to be one of the biggest stories in the latest NHL updates, with the Maple Leafs expected to continue vetting candidates before next season kicks off.