CONGRATULATIONS: Toronto Maple Leafs Owners Officially Announce the Triumphant Return of Mats Sundin as General Manager in 2025, Teaming Up with Head Coach Craig Berube for a Bold New Era
May 28, 2025 – Toronto, ON
In a stunning announcement that has already sent waves through the hockey world, the Toronto Maple Leafs have officially named franchise legend Mats Sundin as the team’s new General Manager, ushering in what many are calling the dawn of a bold new era. Joining Sundin behind the bench will be recently hired head coach Craig Berube, forming a powerful leadership duo with both grit and gravitas.
The announcement was made early Tuesday morning at Scotiabank Arena, where Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE) held a press conference to introduce Sundin and Berube to media and fans alike.
The move marks Sundin’s return to the Leafs organization for the first time in an executive role since retiring as a player in 2009.
“This is a full-circle moment for me,” Sundin said, his voice filled with emotion. “Toronto has always been my hockey home. I’ve worn the ‘C’ for this franchise with pride, and now I’m ready to help lead it from the front office. Together with Craig, we are building a team that Leafs Nation can believe in.”
Sundin, 54, spent 13 seasons with the Maple Leafs and remains the franchise’s all-time leader in goals and points. While he’s been largely quiet in the hockey world since his retirement, sources say he’s spent the past few years studying front office strategies and scouting talent across Europe and North America.
The choice of Craig Berube as head coach complements Sundin’s leadership style with a no-nonsense bench boss known for accountability and discipline. Berube, who coached the St. Louis Blues to a Stanley Cup victory in 2019, brings postseason experience that Leafs fans have been craving.
“Craig knows what it takes to win in this league,” said Sundin. “He’s a proven motivator, and I believe our players will thrive under his structure and competitive edge.”
Berube echoed the sentiment. “This is Toronto. Expectations are high—and they should be. I’ve been brought in to help push this team beyond the first round. Mats and I are on the same page. We want banners, not just headlines.”
While the Leafs’ recent playoff disappointments have tested the patience of fans, the Sundin-Berube era promises a fresh perspective grounded in toughness, integrity, and a deep understanding of what it means to represent the blue and white.
Sundin closed the press conference with a message to the fanbase: “This is more than just hockey. This is about restoring pride in the Maple Leaf. We’re going to work, we’re going to compete, and we’re going to win.”
The countdown to a new era in Leafs history has officially begun.