Joe Pavelski is set to be interviewed for the position of head coach of the Toronto Maple Leafs, according to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman. Now, fans are mocking the Maple Leafs for considering Pavelski, saying he lacks experience.
Joe Pavelski is one of the greatest American-born players in NHL history. Drafted by the San Jose Sharks in 2003, Pavelski spent 18 seasons in the NHL, representing both the Sharks and the Dallas Stars.
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Joe Pavelski as Maple Leafs coach
Over his 18-year career, Pavelski recorded 1,068 points in 1,332 games. He also appeared in 201 playoff games, tallying 143 points. Pavelski hung up his skates after the 2023–24 season, during which he scored 67 points in 82 games for the Stars.
Following his playing career, Pavelski has turned to coaching. Since the 2024–25 season, he has coached his son at the U14 and U15 levels.
Now, Pavelski is rumored to be interviewing for the head coaching position with the Toronto Maple Leafs, according to insider Elliotte Friedman. The Maple Leafs are undergoing a major reorganization and are currently searching for a new head coach. Pavelski is being described as a Martin St. Louis-style hire, similar to the one that has proven successful for the Montreal Canadiens.
Fans are outraged
But fans are not sold on the idea of Pavelski behind the Maple Leafs bench, arguing that he is too inexperienced. Online, many are openly mocking the team’s reported interest.
“Holy shit, are you kidding me? Who’s next on the interview list? The team trainer? This ‘search’ is already a shit show,” one fan wrote on X.
“Next on the list is Phil Kessel’s hot dog vendor,” another fan joked.
“Toronto always trying to mimic the Mecca of hockey,” a third fan chimed in.
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