Toronto Maple Leafs Head Craig Berube, Who Recently Signed a $125M NIL Deal, Rejects a Historic NIL Deal of $205M Offer from Montreal Canadiens: ‘My Loyalty Lies with Toronto Maple Leafs—This Is Home.

In an era where massive contracts often dictate the course of sports careers, newly appointed Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube has made it clear: some decisions are still driven by heart.

 

Fresh off a monumental $125 million NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deal an unprecedented figure in hockey coaching Berube made headlines again by rejecting a staggering $205 million offer from the Montreal Canadiens. The deal, described by insiders as the most lucrative coaching proposal in NHL history, would have shattered financial records and sent shockwaves through the league.

 

“This isn’t just about money,” Berube said during a brief media session. “My loyalty lies with the Toronto Maple Leafs. This is home.”

 

The Montreal Canadiens, one of the Leafs’ oldest and fiercest rivals, reportedly hoped to spark a dramatic shift in leadership and rivalry momentum with their massive offer. But Berube’s firm refusal sent a powerful message not only about his commitment to the Maple Leafs but also about the values he brings to the organization.

 

Since being appointed head coach of the Maple Leafs, Berube has been embraced by fans and players alike. Known for his no-nonsense leadership style and ability to foster discipline and accountability, Berube quickly became a central figure in Toronto’s push toward championship contention.

 

With a roster full of star talent including Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, and Morgan Rielly, the Leafs are aiming to end their decades-long Stanley Cup drought—and Berube is expected to play a pivotal role in that pursuit.

 

“Toronto gave me this opportunity, and I intend to give them everything I’ve got,” he added. “It’s about building something lasting. I’m not chasing the biggest check I’m chasing a legacy.”

 

Reactions from Leafs Nation have been overwhelmingly positive. Social media erupted with praise for Berube’s loyalty, with many fans calling him a “true Leaf” despite his short time with the team. Some described the move as one of the most admirable coaching decisions in recent NHL memory.

 

While Montreal will now return to the drawing board in search of a new leader, Toronto can move forward with confidence. In Craig Berube, they have not only a head coach but a leader deeply committed to the cause.

 

And in a league driven by competition and dollars, that kind of loyalty is rare and priceless.