As Auston Matthews’ Toronto Maple Leafs enter a new chapter under head coach Craig Berube, the franchise continues reinforcing its bench. On Friday, Toronto announced the hiring of Derek Lalonde, the former head coach of the Detroit Red Wings, as an assistant coach—a move that signals the club’s commitment to reshaping its identity.
Lalonde’s arrival brings a wealth of NHL and developmental experience to a coaching staff that is evolving alongside a roster hungry for postseason success. With Matthews still in his prime and Toronto’s core intact, every addition behind the bench carries strategic weight.
The move also fills the void left by Lane Lambert’s departure to Seattle and further balances a staff tasked with finally guiding this star-laden group beyond its playoff frustrations.
A well-traveled coaching veteran
Lalonde, 52, spent three seasons as head coach of the Red Wings, compiling an 89-86-23 record from 2022 until midway through the 2024–25 campaign. While his tenure in Detroit was mixed in results, his reputation for communication, player development, and structure earned him respect around the league.
Head coach Derek Lalonde of the Detroit Red Wings looks on against the Chicago Blackhawks during the third period at the United Center on November 06, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
He has also worked withTeam USA at the IIHF World Championships in both 2023 and 2024, serving as an assistant coach on the international stage—experience that only enhances his value in a high-pressure market like Toronto.
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Reinforcing Toronto’s evolving bench
With Lalonde joining the Maple Leafs, Berube’s staff now includes assistants Mike Van Ryn and Marc Savard, as well as goaltending coach Curtis Sanford. Van Ryn brings a defense-first mindset from his playing days and time with St. Louis, while Savard adds offensive creativity.
This coaching group blends NHL head coaching experience, player development insight, and international exposure—an essential mix as Toronto seeks to evolve beyond its playoff shortcomings. The Leafs have made the postseason in eight straight years but advanced past the first round only once.
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Now, as the Leafs continue to retool behind the scenes, Lalonde’s deep and diverse background promises to bring balance and perspective to a coaching staff tasked with turning talent into a championship-caliber product.
