Maple Leafs Head Coach Craig Berube Sends Clear Message to his Team Ahead of the Playoffs

Every post-season run brings about different elements of pressure for all teams involved. Some have to deal with a lot more than others, primarily due to market size and media members.

Playing in Toronto can be a blessing when everything is working to a tune but it can also be hell on earth when things are falling apart. The previous 8 playoff trips haven't brought about any level of success, making their 9th attempt another pressure-filled situation.

Head coach Craig Berube had to deal with a big market in Philadelphia during his short tenure but nothing can really compare to Toronto during the spring. Nevertheless, the seasoned veteran has a clear message to his team on what to do and what to expect at this time of the year.

The Toronto Maple Leafs are entering the post-season on a high after claiming their first division title since 1999-00, with the exception of the North Division crown they won during the COVID-shortened season in 2020-21.

On top of that, their defense has been miles better since the trade deadline, their goaltending has been on top since the start of the season, and the core players have contributed immensely over the last couple of months.

Add in the expiring contracts of player like Mitch Marner and John Tavares and all of a sudden there's a lot more on the line. Media members have already begun pointing the finger at the Core 4 before the puck has even dropped ahead of Game 1.

All of that combined with a matchup against Ottawa, instead of a Floridian team in the first round, has hopes and expectations rising. Hopefully the rest of the team can buckle down and take Berube's message to heart as they look to set the tone in Game 1 and beyond.

Keeping things as low key as possible and trying to ignore all the outside noise is going to be very important should the Leafs make a deep playoff run. All of that starts later tonight when the puck is finally dropped at the Scotiabank Arena.