Leafs Add Sport Performance VP Amid Front Office Overhaul
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General manager John Chayka brings in Andy O'Brien and a specialized staff to oversee player health and performance following a playoff-less season.
As first reported by CBC Toronto, the Toronto Maple Leafs have appointed Andy O'Brien as the organization's vice-president of sport performance. O'Brien, a 48-year-old from Charlottetown, will be responsible for overseeing the NHL club's nutrition, sport science, strength and conditioning, mental performance, and injury rehabilitation.
According to CBC Toronto, O'Brien arrives after serving as a high-performance consultant for the Florida Panthers since 2021. His resume includes a stint as the director of sports science and performance for the Pittsburgh Penguins from 2015 to 2021, as well as a four-year tenure as the Panthers' strength and conditioning coach starting in 2005. O'Brien has also served as a personal trainer for Sidney Crosby and was part of four Stanley Cup-winning teams in 2016, 2017, 2024, and 2025.
General manager John Chayka, who was hired in May to replace the fired Brad Treliving, stated on Monday that providing players with every possible resource to perform at their best is a top priority for the organization. Chayka noted that the ownership group remains committed to investing in the player experience and player care.
O'Brien is not joining the organization alone. CBC Toronto reports that his staff includes Dr. Craig Slaunwhite (director of health and performance integration), Jason Martin (strength and conditioning coach), Josh Crouse (assistant strength and conditioning coach), and Dr. Jordan Shallow (human performance consultant).
The move comes as Chayka continues to overhaul various departments following a difficult campaign. Last season, the Maple Leafs finished with a 32-36-14 record, marking the first time in 10 years the team missed the playoffs. The roster dealt with significant injuries last year, including goaltender Anthony Stolarz, who missed 36 games, and star forward Auston Matthews, who missed the final 15 games of the regular season due to a ligament tear in his knee.
In a statement reported by CBC Toronto, O'Brien said the organization is dedicated to supporting individual athletes through industry-leading player care.