Maple Leafs' Coaching Decision After Christmas Draws Attention

The Toronto Maple Leafs made a coaching move after Christmas that quickly drew attention.

The Leafs added Steve Sullivan as an assistant coach. He replaces Marc Savard, who was fired earlier in the week. Sullivan had been working as an assistant coach with the Marlies since the start of the season. The 51-year-old brings a long NHL résumé. He played 1,011 career games across six teams and later moved into player development and front office roles.

The post sparked instant reaction across social media. Many fans questioned whether the change would address deeper issues.

“This changes nothing. It wasn’t a Marc problem, it’s a roster problem,” one fan wrote.

“The Marlies are 10th out of 15th on power play in the Eastern Conference. I fear we are cooked,” another fan pointed.

“Nothing against Sully, but why not Bruce Boudreau? Excellent with the players, very successful coach. I don’t get it! Can someone explain?” one fan questioned.

“It’s all about PR. They can have nobody behind the bench, the players are the ones to be held accountable 100% of the time,” a fan wrote.

“Rearranging deck chairs on the Titanic,” a fan wrote, pointing to the Leafs’ performance.

“I remember watching him with the Leafs. He was a good little player,” one fan reacted.

“Good for him for being promoted but this is still barely a playoff team. The goaltending stinks, they can’t defend and Max Domi has scored once since October. But let’s just focus on the PP. Get rid of the GM and or some players,” one fan wrote.

The reactions reflected frustration with the team’s direction. Results this season have left little patience among the fan base.

Toronto Maple Leafs forward William Nylander (88) and forward Auston Matthews (34) discuss a play.John E&period; Sokolowski-Imagn Images

The Leafs’ struggles give context to the move, as Toronto sits near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings at 16-15-5. Defensive play remains a concern, with goals against outpacing goals scored.

Special teams have been a major issue because the Leafs’ power play ranks last in the league at 13 percent. With pressure mounting, Sullivan steps into a spotlight in Toronto that few assistants face.

This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Dec 26, 2025, where it first appeared in the NHL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Maple Leafs’ Coaching Decision After Christmas Draws Attention

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