The Toronto Maple Leafs and Edmonton Oilers have reportedly taken an offbeat approach to lead their roster. Former NHL star Joe Pavelski has emerged as a surprise candidate on the teams' coaching shortlists.

The rumors have generated interest because Pavelski has never coached at the professional level. The 41-year-old's experience is limited to the Madison Capitols' U-15 team.

However, according to The Mercury News, the former San Jose Sharks captain said talks are taking place.

Pavelski said. “I’ve always thought the game well. It was a strength of mine when I played. When the opportunity kind of came (from the Leafs) to explore it more, it was something I definitely wanted to entertain, and that’s where kind of the discussions have led."

He said Toronto is being "very thorough" in its hiring process and that both sides are taking time to consider the opportunity.

TSN's NHL insider Pierre Lebrun also reported on the news, claiming that Pavelski was among the five coaching candidates for the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Pavelski, however, said he is considering all of his options before deciding on his future. With the Oilers also seeking a new head coach, his stance has evoked additional interest.

"There’s a certain level of timing that comes into all this, and where my family’s at, and why certain things work (or) not," he added. "It’s something we’re not rushing into. We’re looking through on our end very thoroughly, and we’ll see where it goes."

While the approach may seem odd, such a hire isn't unprecedented. The Montreal Canadiens famously brought in Martin St. Louis as their head coach in the 2021/22 season.

Before taking the role, St. Louis' only experience came at the U-13 level. However, since his arrival, the Canadiens have enjoyed remarkable growth, including a recent playoff run to the Eastern Conference Final.

Similarly, Pavelski's extensive playing career may tip the scales in his favor.

Pavelski’s Playing Career May Prove Crucial

Joe Pavelski’s coaching links feel more interesting than most first-time candidates because of his playing résumé.

He played 1,332 NHL games and scored 1,068 points with 476 goals. He performed especially well in the playoffs, including leading the Dallas Stars with 13 goals during their 2020 run to the Stanley Cup Final.

He delivered consistently in big moments with both Dallas and the San Jose Sharks.

As a captain and veteran leader in the league, Pavelski built a strong reputation for preparation, communication, and leadership in the locker room.

Pavelski's game intellect has also been lauded by one of his former coaches, Peter DeBoer.

“Elite hockey mind with a teacher mentality,” DeBoer said, per Toronto Sun. “He was always working on his own game, but also was first to help others and loved talking systems and strategy."

For now, Toronto and Edmonton’s coaching search continues, but Pavelski is not ruling out becoming an NHL head coach.

What do you think? Can Joe Pavelski successfully transition from respected NHL leader to first-time head coach?

Read more at the NHL Fan Central.

Written by

Kapil Manghnani

Edited by

Sijo Paul