Toronto Maple Leafs have made a significant adjustment to their coaching staff following a rocky start to the season.
Assistant coach Marc Savard was dismissed after the team’s power play struggled to find consistency, ranking 32nd in the league.
While there had been speculation regarding the job security of head coach Craig Berube, general manager Brad Treliving clarified that Berube’s position remains secure.
Steve Sullivan named new assistant coach
Stepping into the role is former NHL forward Steve Sullivan, who brings a wealth of playing experience to the bench.
Sullivan, who played 1,011 NHL games over a career spanning multiple teams, had been serving as an assistant coach with the Maple Leafs’ AHL affiliate, the Toronto Marlies, since August 2024. This marks his first position behind an NHL bench.
Sullivan’s playing career began when he was drafted 233rd overall by the New Jersey Devils in the 1993 NHL Draft.
He played briefly with New Jersey before being traded to Toronto Maple Leafs along with defenceman Jason Smith and the rights to Alyn McCauley in exchange for Doug Gilmour, Dave Ellett, and a third-round pick.
He quickly made his mark, earning NHL Rookie of the Month honors in March after posting four goals and seven assists in 11 games.
Steve Sullivan’s career would take him to the Chicago Blackhawks, Nashville Predators, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Arizona Coyotes, before finishing with the Devils, his original team.
A decorated NHL veteran takes the bench
During his NHL career, Sullivan accumulated 290 goals and 457 assists across 1,011 regular-season games. In 50 playoff games, he added nine goals and 14 assists.
His extensive career, including helping the Predators reach the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time, brings a mix of veteran insight and competitive experience to Toronto Maple Leafs’ coaching staff.
Maple Leafs hope Steve Sullivan’s presence will inject fresh strategies and momentum into their struggling power play while providing support to Berube as the team aims to climb the standings.