Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›
The Maple Leafs’ loyal fans remain a bright spot in a dark season, their unwavering support a testament to the team’s special place in Toronto’s sports landscape.San Jose Today
Despite a 6-5 loss to the Dallas Stars, Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube had high praise for the team’s loyal fans, calling their support ‘fabulous’ and describing Toronto as a ‘great hockey market’ and ‘special place’.
Why it matters
The Maple Leafs are enduring a historically poor season, sitting in last place in the Atlantic Division and missing the playoffs for the first time since 2016. Berube’s positive comments about the fans highlight the team’s dedicated supporters who have stuck by the franchise through its struggles.
The details
The Maple Leafs blew a 3-0 first-period lead against the Stars, ultimately losing 6-5 at home. Even with the disappointing result, Berube took time after the game to commend the Leafs fans for their unwavering support, saying ‘the support in Toronto is fabulous’ and that Toronto is ‘a great hockey market’ and ‘a great sports town’.
The Maple Leafs lost to the Dallas Stars on Monday, April 14, 2026.The Maple Leafs will finish their season with a visit to the Ottawa Senators on Wednesday, April 15, 2026.
What they’re saying
“The support in Toronto is fabulous. It’s been fabulous as long as I can remember. It’s going to continue to be fabulous. It’s a great hockey market. It is a great sports town. The fans are awesome here. I talk about it all the time. This is a special place.”
— Craig Berube, Head Coach
What’s next
Multiple changes are expected in the Maple Leafs’ front office following the dismissal of general manager Brad Treliving, but it remains unclear if there will be a coaching change as well.
The takeaway
Despite a disappointing season that will see the Maple Leafs miss the playoffs for the first time since 2016, the team’s head coach recognized the unwavering support and passion of the Toronto fan base, describing it as ‘fabulous’ and the city as a ‘special place’ for hockey.