Craig Berube's Comments About New Leafs Acquisition Sammy Blais Should Excite Fans

As the 2025-26 NHL regular season approaches, the Toronto Maple Leafs appear ready to go, with what appears to be a set starting lineup for tomorrow's season opener against their rivals, the Montreal Canadiens.

One of the newest additions to the Maple Leafs, Sammy Blais, who was claimed off waivers from the Canadiens just days ago, appears to be someone that Leafs head coach Craig Berube may lean on more than expected.

Berube is already familiar with Blais from their time together with the St. Louis Blues, where they won a Stanley Cup together. On Tuesday, Berube spoke about his expectations for Blais and what he believes the forward can bring to the team.

As per Terry Koshan on X:

Blais is known for his strong, physical game, registering an impressive 835 hits in 257 NHL games so far in his career.

Berube values players who play with physicality and are defensively responsible -- qualities that Blais possesses in abundance. Those traits could help him secure a regular spot with the team as the season progresses.

All eyes are now on Blais to see whether he can live up to the expectations of his former, and now current, head coach. If he's anything like what Berube is selling, Blais should be a fan favourite in Toronto.