So far, theToronto Maple Leafs have had a mixed start under Craig Berube, holding a record of 5-4-1 after a decisive 6-4 victory on Monday against the previously undefeated Winnipeg Jets. While Berube was pleased with the win, he acknowledged that the team still has areas to improve, particularly regarding their tendency to get into penalty trouble.
When the Maple Leafs appointed Berube as the new head coach in the offseason, it was clear that his preferred style of play could lead to success in the playoffs, as a former Stanley Cup winning coach. Now, former NHL All-Star Jeremy Roenick has added to that belief with his comments on the "Leafs Morning Take" podcast on Wednesday.
Berube's style of coaching emphasizes accountability and promotes a defense-first mentality, a significant shift from former coach Sheldon Keefe, who often prioritized a high-octane offence , which was clear from the many high scoring performances in recent years.
Berube's style of coaching style has proven successful in past playoff runs, which was showcased when Berube coached the St. Louis Blues to a Cup in 2019 in one of the greatest Cinderella stories of all time. The hope is that he can do the unthinkable and capture another Stanley Cup with the Maple Leafs during his tenure in Toronto, ending a drought that is nearing 6 decades.