NHL News: Maple Leafs Make Strategic Coaching Move, Adding Former Red Wings HC to Support Auston Matthews As.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have taken another significant step toward redefining their identity and enhancing their postseason prospects. On Friday, the franchise announced the hiring of Derek Lalonde, the former head coach of the Detroit Red Wings, as an assistant coach under newly appointed bench boss Craig Berube.

This move is widely seen as a strategic investment in both leadership development and playoff success—particularly in maximizing the impact of franchise cornerstone Auston Matthews.

Lalonde joins Toronto’s coaching staff after two seasons at the helm in Detroit, where he played a pivotal role in transitioning a young roster through the rebuilding phase. Though his record with the Red Wings didn’t deliver playoff results, Lalonde earned a reputation for his structured systems, emphasis on defensive responsibility, and player development—a skill set that could prove invaluable in Toronto’s pursuit of postseason breakthroughs.

For Matthews, who is coming off another elite regular season and continues to carry the expectations of an entire fanbase, the move adds another layer of veteran guidance to support his leadership on and off the ice.

At 26, Matthews has become the face of the franchise and its emotional engine. While his individual success has been undeniable, the team’s playoff struggles have been a persistent blemish.

By reinforcing the coaching staff with seasoned voices like Lalonde’s, the Leafs are clearly signaling their intent to reshape not only their tactical approach but also their locker room culture.

The appointment also reflects a broader strategic alignment between general manager Brad Treliving and head coach Craig Berube. Known for his no-nonsense approach and Stanley Cup-winning experience with the St. Louis Blues, Berube brings a gritty, defensively responsible coaching style—one that complements Lalonde’s emphasis on detail-oriented hockey.

“We’re committed to building a team and coaching staff that understands what it takes to win when it matters most,” said Berube in Friday’s press release. “Derek brings a wealth of experience and a clear vision for how to help our group evolve.”

Lalonde’s arrival is the latest in a series of offseason moves designed to instill a tougher, more resilient mindset in a group long criticized for its lack of playoff edge. With the Atlantic Division becoming increasingly competitive, every addition counts, and Toronto’s front office seems determined to leave no stone unturned in supporting its core.

As the Leafs head into the 2025–26 season, expectations will be sky-high once again. But this time, with a fortified coaching staff and a renewed focus on accountability and structure, there’s growing optimism that Matthews and company may finally have the tools they need to turn regular-season excellence into deep playoff success.