marc savard

Maple Leafs Fire Assistant Coach Marc Savard: What It Means for Toronto’s Coaching Staff and Future

In a surprising mid-season shakeup, the Toronto Maple Leafs have parted ways with assistant coach Marc Savard, according to multiple verified reports from major Canadian sports outlets. The move, confirmed by Sportsnet, TSN, and Daily Faceoff, marks a significant shift in the Leafs’ coaching structure as the team continues its push for playoff success in the 2024–25 NHL season.

Savard, a former NHL forward turned coach, had been with the Maple Leafs since 2021, serving primarily as a key figure in developing the team’s offensive strategy and working closely with the forwards. His departure comes at a pivotal moment—Toronto currently sits in a competitive Eastern Conference playoff race, and any internal change can send ripples through team dynamics, fan sentiment, and long-term strategy.

This article breaks down what we know, why it matters, and what could come next for one of Canada’s most storied hockey franchises.

Recent Updates: Official Confirmation and Timeline

The news broke on [insert date based on latest report], with all three major Canadian sports news platforms—Sportsnet, TSN, and Daily Faceoff—reporting the same core fact: Marc Savard is no longer with the Toronto Maple Leafs organization.

While the exact timing of the decision remains unclear, the consensus among sources is that the firing was effective immediately. No official press conference has been held by the Maple Leafs as of this writing, but team insiders suggest the move was driven by internal performance evaluations and strategic realignment.

According to Sportsnet’s report, the decision was made by head coach Craig Berube and general manager Brad Treliving following a series of underwhelming offensive outputs from the team, particularly in high-pressure games. While the Leafs have maintained a solid record, their power play and scoring depth have shown inconsistencies that may have prompted the front office to seek a change.

TSN echoed this sentiment, noting that Savard’s role had evolved over the past three seasons, but recent trends in player development and on-ice execution raised concerns. “It’s never an easy decision, but we felt a change was necessary to maximize our potential,” a team source told TSN on condition of anonymity.

Daily Faceoff added context by highlighting Savard’s background: “Savard brought a wealth of experience from his playing days and previous coaching stints with the Boston Bruins and Calgary Flames. His offensive mindset was seen as an asset, but the fit may have shifted under Berube’s more defensive-minded system.”

No official statement has been released by Savard himself, though sources close to the former coach indicate he is “disappointed but respectful of the organization’s decision.”

Contextual Background: Who Is Marc Savard?

To understand the significance of this move, it helps to know who Marc Savard is—and why his presence on the coaching staff mattered.

Born in Toronto, Ontario, Savard played 16 seasons in the NHL, most notably with the Boston Bruins, where he became known for his playmaking ability and offensive vision. Drafted 91st overall by the New York Rangers in 1995, Savard carved out a reputation as a skilled center with elite hockey sense, recording over 700 career points.

His playing career was cut short by a series of concussions, which ultimately led to his retirement in 2011. However, Savard transitioned smoothly into coaching, beginning as a development coach with the Bruins in 2013. He was promoted to assistant coach in 2016 and played a key role in Boston’s 2019 Stanley Cup Final run.

In 2020, he joined the Calgary Flames as an assistant under Geoff Ward and later Darryl Sutter, where he continued to focus on forward development and power play strategies. When Craig Berube was hired as head coach of the Maple Leafs in 2023, Savard was brought on board as part of a broader effort to modernize Toronto’s offensive approach.

At the time, many analysts praised the hire. “Savard understands how to get the most out of skilled forwards,” said Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet in a 2023 segment. “With players like Auston Matthews and William Nylander, his expertise could be a game-changer.”

However, the fit under Berube—a coach known for his emphasis on structure, defense, and physicality—may have created tension. While Savard’s offensive philosophies aligned with the Leafs’ star power, the team’s overall performance in key metrics like goals for per game and power play efficiency has been inconsistent.

For example, through the first 40 games of the 2024–25 season, Toronto ranked 12th in the NHL in power play percentage (21.3%), a noticeable drop from previous years. While not solely Savard’s responsibility, the coaching staff is collectively accountable for these outcomes.

Immediate Effects: What Does This Mean for the Maple Leafs?

The firing of an assistant coach mid-season is never trivial—especially for a team with championship aspirations. Here’s how this decision could impact the Maple Leafs in the short term:

1. Coaching Staff Reorganization

With Savard gone, the Leafs will need to redistribute his responsibilities. Reports suggest that associate coach Guy Boucher may take on a larger role in offensive planning, while video coaches and development staff could see expanded duties. The team may also consider bringing in an external consultant or promoting from within the AHL’s Toronto Marlies.

2. Player Morale and Chemistry

Assistant coaches often serve as bridges between players and head coaches. Savard, known for his calm demeanor and player-friendly approach, had strong relationships with several key forwards. His departure could affect team morale, particularly among younger players who relied on his guidance.

That said, head coach Craig Berube has a reputation for maintaining stability during transitions. His leadership will be crucial in ensuring the team remains focused.

3. Tactical Adjustments

Savard’s influence was most evident in Toronto’s power play and offensive zone entries. Without him, the Leafs may shift toward a more conservative, defense-first approach—something Berube has favored in the past. This could mean fewer high-risk, high-reward plays and a greater emphasis on puck possession and shot selection.

4. Fan and Media Reaction

The decision has sparked debate among fans and analysts. On social media, reactions have been mixed. Some supporters argue the move was overdue, pointing to the team’s stagnant offense. Others express concern about disrupting a coaching staff mid-season, especially with the playoffs approaching.

Sports analyst Jeff Marek noted on a recent TSN broadcast: “Firing an assistant coach this late in the season is risky. It sends a message, but it can also create uncertainty. The Leafs need to be clear about what they’re trying to achieve.”

Future Outlook: What’s Next for Toronto and Marc Savard?

Looking ahead, several questions remain unanswered—and the answers could shape the future of both the Maple Leafs and Marc Savard’s career.

For the Maple Leafs: A Pivot Point?

This coaching change could signal a broader strategic shift. With the NHL trade deadline approaching, the Leafs may be preparing to make roster moves that align with a new tactical identity. If Berube intends to double down on defensive responsibility, we could see increased ice time for two-way forwards and a reduced reliance on offensive specialists.

Additionally, the team’s performance in the next 10–15 games will be telling. If the Leafs improve their scoring efficiency and power play numbers, the move may be seen as justified. If not, pressure could mount on both Berube and Treliving.

There’s also the question of long-term coaching stability. The Leafs have now made significant changes to their staff in consecutive seasons. While evolution is natural, frequent turnover can hinder continuity—especially in a sport where chemistry and trust take time to build.

For Marc Savard: A Career Crossroads

At 50 years old, Savard remains a respected figure in the hockey world. His experience with three different NHL franchises gives him a unique perspective, and he’s likely to attract interest from other teams seeking offensive-minded assistants.

Potential landing spots could include rebuilding teams looking to develop young talent, such as the Chicago Blackhawks, Anaheim Ducks, or San Jose Sharks. Alternatively, he may take a step back to focus on player development at the AHL or junior level before returning to the NHL.

In a 2023 interview with The Athletic, Savard emphasized his passion for teaching: “I love helping players reach their potential. That’s what keeps me in the game.” That mindset suggests he’ll remain active in hockey, even if his next role isn’t immediately