Major changes possible for Maple Leafs & nobody is 'safe'

The Toronto Maple Leafs are on a three-game losing skid and lost 12 out of their last 14 games since the Olympic break. The slide pushed the Maple Leafs into a difficult position as the NHL season winds down.

What began as a campaign with Stanley Cup hopes turned into a major setback. Toronto now sits at 29-29-13 and is close to falling out of playoff contention. Defensive issues and inconsistent play defined the season, with the team allowing among the highest goals per game in the league.

During Tuesday’s episode of the “First Up” podcast, NHL analyst Chris Johnston offered a blunt assessment of the situation. He said the organization plans to evaluate everything over the final 11 games. Johnston added that “nobody would be feeling safe right now with this organization.”

MORE: Maple Leafs goalie adheres to Auston Matthews’ advice after puck accident

Johnston also pointed to a sharp drop from early-season expectations.

“There’s going to need to be some change that comes from that. I just don’t think there’s any way around it,” he said. This reflects growing belief that major moves are coming.

There have also been signs of a disconnect within the team. Johnston noted that last season focused on chemistry, but “you certainly haven’t felt that at times this year.” Frustration built as losses continue to pile up, especially after the Olympics break and post-captain Auston Matthews‘ injury.

Management could also face changes, with the team lacking another strong voice alongside Brad Treliving.

The Maple Leafs are waiting for the final 11 games of the season to play out before making decisions, and “nobody would be feeling safe right now with this organization.” After starting the year talking about competing for a Stanley Cup, the team has experienced a steep drop off,… pic.twitter.com/8trn1ebijq

— Leafslatest (@Leafslatest) March 24, 2026

Big injury setbacks, including one to Matthews and another to Chris Tanev, have added to the struggles. Still, the overall performance has not met expectations.

Craig Berube’s message amid Maple Leafs’ struggles

Head coach Craig Berube remains under pressure, though he continues to push the group to compete. New guys like Michael Pezzetta and Dennis Hildeby are being called from the AHL, but Berube is not changing his approach.

“The lineup is different for sure, and there’s young guys coming up from the minors playing, and we’re looking to see what they can do and accomplish,” Berube said. “But at the same time, it’s all about playing as a team, being highly competitive and playing hard. The X’s and O’s are the X’s or the O’s. But it’s about showing up every night and competing at a high level.

“That’s what’s important for me. Yes, there’s mistakes and things that happen in the game, but where’s your compete level? Are you playing for the crest on the front of the jersey? That’s where it matters to me.”