Craig Berube Identifies Standout Performer for Maple Leafs and It's Not Who You Might Think

The Toronto Maple Leafs are coming off of a dominant 5-0 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets, making a strong statement as the season progresses. The Leafs have been dominant of late, which is perfect timing as the team is ramping up their effectiveness as the playoffs quickly approach.

While several players had standout performances on Saturday, Nick Robertson and William Nylander each scored two goals, and Anthony Stolarz recorded a shutout-head and may have stood out as the top players in the win.

However, regardless of several players putting up great statistics in the win, head coach Craig Berube singled out a different name as his player of the game: newly acquired, big right-shot defenseman .

As per Berube's comments, which were shared by The Leafs Nation on X:

Carlo has fit in incredible well with the Maple Leafs' roster and is quickly proving to be a prototypical Berube-style player. He has also had incredible advanced statistics since joining the team in wins and losses.

He's brought intensity and physicality to practice, clearly showing that he means business, yet he's also connected well with his new teammates-evidenced by his praise for veteran Morgan Rielly.

The Maple Leafs have been in strong form lately, and Berube's acknowledgment of players who don't always light up the scoresheet is refreshing. It's players like Carlo -- responsible, steady, and tough -- who can make all the difference come playoff time.