Joe Pavelski Could Be Maple Leafs Coach Despite Zero NHL Experience

Joe Pavelski is reportedly among the candidates being considered for the Toronto Maple Leafs’ head coaching vacancy. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman revealed on June 7 that Pavelski is being viewed as a “Martin St. Louis-style” candidate, a Hall of Fame player with no formal coaching background but a strong reputation in the locker room.

Pavelski, 39, retired in 2024 after a 17-season NHL career that included two Stanley Cup championships with the San Jose Sharks and Dallas Stars. He currently coaches his son Nate in Madison, Wisconsin, but has no experience at the NHL or AHL level. Still, the Maple Leafs are intrigued by the possibility of hiring a player who is universally respected across the league.

This path is not without precedent. The Montreal Canadiens hired Martin St. Louis in February 2022, and under his leadership, the team saw a dramatic turnaround. Rookie Cole Caufield, who struggled in his first season, scored 34 goals in 2022-23 and developed into a key offensive threat. The Canadiens made it to the Eastern Conference Final in 2024, a clear sign that St. Louis has built something sustainable in Montreal.

Pavelski brings a similar profile, a two-time Stanley Cup champion, a former captain, and a player who earned his reputation through work ethic and leadership. He has never been linked to a coaching job before, but that may not matter as much as his influence with players. The Maple Leafs are in a transition period and could benefit from a coach who commands respect and fosters a winning culture.

Toronto had previously ruled out unproven candidates in past coaching searches, but the emergence of Pavelski’s name shows the team is willing to take a different approach. Pavelski is not dismissing the opportunity and has been in contact with Maple Leafs brass.

The Maple Leafs have until June 20 to make a final decision on their head coach. They are also monitoring how the rest of the NHL’s coaching market develops. The team could still pursue a more traditional candidate, but Pavelski’s inclusion in the mix adds an unexpected twist to the search.