Canadian ice hockey coach Peter DeBoer break silence and addresses rumours of Toronto Maple Leafs takeover

The Toronto Maple Leafs’ struggles have been well documented and, given the intense spotlight that comes with playing in the NHL’s biggest market, it has fuelled plenty of speculation around the team.

While trade rumours are nothing new in Toronto, recent attention has focused heavily on head coach Craig Berube. Reports have suggested Berube could be under pressure, with former Dallas Stars coach Peter DeBoer frequently mentioned as a potential replacement if a change were made.

On the surface, the rumours appeared plausible. DeBoer is one of the most experienced and high-profile NHL coaches currently available. However, it now seems the speculation has little substance behind it.

On Saturday night, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman revealed that DeBoer has directly addressed the situation — and in doing so, distanced himself completely from any suggestion of a Maple Leafs takeover. Speaking on Hockey Night in Canada, Friedman explained that DeBoer sent a message to Berube through a mutual contact, making his position clear.

According to Friedman, the message read: “Forget all this noise. I’m not involved here and it’s not happening.”

Friedman later contacted DeBoer to ask why he felt the need to reach out. DeBoer responded by explaining that he has previously been on the receiving end of similar speculation and did not like the situation being reversed. He felt it was important to shut the rumours down.

The update may disappoint some fans who had already begun calling for Berube’s dismissal, though that number may have dwindled following two strong Maple Leafs victories last week.

For Berube, however, the news will come as a significant relief. It seems unlikely Toronto would move on from their head coach without a clear and credible replacement lined up — and DeBoer has now made it clear he is not part of that conversation.