Leafs head coach Sheldon Keefe shares feelings about the addition of Ilya Lyubushkin

"I think it helps us for sure. We are familiar with him, and when he came here in the past, he helped us both in what he brings and the type of player that he is. He is ultra-competitive, physical, and strong, and he doesn't back down to anyone or any situation. He plays the game hard and honest.

He is a right shot, and we have talked enough about that to know the importance of that. That in and of itself allows some things to settle into place, which is where the additional boost comes from.

Part of it is what Boosh himself brings. Part of it is how it impacts the rest of the D core. I think it is a good move and we are happy to have him. There is familiarity with the players and staff that was here. Everyone really enjoyed their time with him. I certainly did.

It was good timing, too, of course." - Keefe on the Lyubushkin addition

"We had conversations about it over the last little while. He just wanted to know my perspective on my time with him. I haven't seen much of him (recently) other than us preparing to play against him, but in his time here, I really enjoyed coaching him. He got along very well with the players. He fit in well. I know Tre talked to some of the guys as well and got their perspective.

You have confidence that he would fit in not only with the players who have been here but with the group, the coaching staff, and the training staff. At this time of the year, I think it is something to help with that transition for players coming into a team that is trying to win and be competitive. A guy who has some familiarity that can ease the transition is helpful."