'Fire Berube' among the topics trending in Canada after Leafs blow lead and lose to Capitals

The Maple Leafs opened well when Morgan Rielly scored his fourth goal of the year three minutes into the first period, but the early spark faded fast.

The Capitals would not be embarrassed on home ice, pushing back with heavy pressure, winning battles along the wall and forcing rushed exits that broke Toronto's rhythm. The Leafs managed only five shots in each of the first two periods, and their 10 wins in 24 games now place them seventh in the Atlantic Division.

Matthew Knies briefly lifted the mood with his sixth goal early in the second period, assisted by Auston Matthews, but the Capitals controlled the rest of the frame.

Joseph Woll stopped 30 of 33 shots and posted a .909 save percentage, matching Logan Thompson's number, but Woll faced far more dangerous looks. Toronto gave up 34 shots, 23 of them at even strength, and struggled to contain Washington's cycle. The Leafs generated only 22 shots the other way, their fifth game this month below 25.

Fans voiced their frustration instantly, and the reaction hit social media with force. As the final horn sounded, "Fire Berube" and "Treliving" surged into Canada's trending topics, a sign of mounting unrest around a team that expected steadier results under a veteran coach and a retooled roster.

Many fans feel the identity promised in October has not carried into November.

Earlier this week, one prominent Leafs analyst opined that the Leafs should fire Berube and bring in a replacement behind the bench. It appears as though the fans are in agreement, whether or not it's deserved.

Toronto's next step matters. The Leafs need quicker exits, more slot pressure, and steadier special teams, but they also need belief, and that starts behind the bench and in the front office. Friday's loss sharpened the spotlight on both leaders as December looms.

The Leafs won't have long to dwell on this one as they return to action tomorrow night against Sidney Crosby and the Pittsburgh Penguins.