The Toronto Maple Leafs have opened preliminary discussions with David Carle, the University of Denver head coach who has guided the Pioneers to three NCAA titles and two World Junior gold medals.
The Coaching Market Heats Up
Carle’s reputation as a developmental mastermind has made him a coveted candidate despite a lack of professional coaching experience, prompting the Leafs to consider him for their vacant bench leadership role.
Across the league, the Edmonton Oilers have turned their attention to Craig Berube, the former St. Louis Blues coach who delivered the franchise’s first Stanley Cup in 2019, a move that aligns with the team’s desire for a proven winner.
Berube’s recent dismissal from the Maple Leafs after a turbulent 2025‑26 season adds intrigue, as the Oilers look to pair his championship pedigree with a fresh tactical outlook.
Meanwhile, forward Karson Kuhlman has secured a one‑year extension with Swedish club Rögle BK of the SHL, continuing a European career that followed stints with the Boston Bruins, Seattle Kraken and Winnipeg Jets.
Kuhlman’s 13 goals and 25 points in his SHL debut season underscore his adaptability, while his NHL résumé includes nearly 150 games and a narrow miss at a Stanley Cup with the Bruins in 2019.