Leafs Coach Craig Berube Claps Back at Senators' Travis Green Over Controversial Comments

As the much-anticipated Battle of Ontario series gets underway, it's already living up to expectations. Calling it intense might even be an understatement, as the game saw a total of eight power plays between the two teams.

But, it's not just the players bringing the fire -- coaches Craig Berube (Toronto) and Travis Green (Ottawa) are also showing their competitive edge. The two appeared to be at odds over how the game was called and even took subtle shots at each other postgame.

As per James Mirtle on X:

One thing is clear: Toronto's power play was locked in, scoring three goals on six opportunities -- a critical factor in the outcome of Game 1. That efficiency could continue to be a game-changer if the physicality and penalties carry over into future matchups.

The tenacity, structure, and discipline the Leafs displayed in Game 1 are exactly the traits head coach Craig Berube has demanded from his team prior to the playoffs beginning, and it showed.

Toronto also managed to neutralize Senators captain Brady Tkachuk, who was largely ineffective despite his reputation as a dominant, physical presence. With questions heading into the series about who on the Leafs could match up against the 6'4», 225-pound forward, Game 1 suggested the team may have found the answer, at least for now.

The Maple Leafs will host the Senators again on Tuesday night, looking to repeat their Game 1 success. They likely won't be able to bank on the same number of power play attempts, but hopefully they're up to the task once again, because Ottawa is sure to bring it after being embarrassed in Game 1.