The Toronto Maple Leafs are under scrutiny to perform according to the vision laid out by head coach Craig Berube. After another disappointing playoff exit last season, the organization brought in Berube to instill a new identity: one built on grit, accountability, and a team-first mentality.
Berube's coaching style is known for its directness and emphasis on holding players accountable. He stresses the importance of communication, ensuring players understand where they stand and what is expected of them. This approach is designed to foster a partnership between the coach and players, built on mutual respect and trust. Berube's philosophy revolves around playing the right way every night, regardless of individual roles or reputations.
However, early in the 2025-26 season, there are signs that the Maple Leafs are not consistently adhering to Berube's promised approach. Despite flashes of the desired structure and effort, familiar patterns of inconsistency and a lack of toughness have resurfaced. After a recent loss to the Seattle Kraken, goalie Anthony Stolarz voiced his displeasure with the team's lack of response after he was run into in his crease, highlighting a continued issue with protecting teammates.
One of Berube's key objectives is to create a more balanced and defensively responsible team. In the past, the Maple Leafs have relied heavily on their star players to outscore opponents, but this approach has often faltered in the playoffs when defensive intensity increases. Berube aims to instill a team-wide focus on accountability, with all players contributing defensively. This involves consistent forechecking, tighter defensive structure, and better puck management.
To achieve this balance, the Maple Leafs made several changes to their roster in the offseason. The most notable was the departure of Mitch Marner, a star forward, traded to the Vegas Golden Knights. In an effort to fill the void left by Marner, the Leafs signed forwards Dakota Joshua, Matias Maccelli and Nicolas Roy, hoping that they can contribute to a more balanced attack. Berube has praised Joshua's potential as a physical player with scoring ability, while also highlighting Roy's versatility and defensive acumen.
However, early returns suggest that the team is still too reliant on its top players. Auston Matthews and William Nylander are carrying the offensive load, while the new depth players have struggled to contribute consistently. This imbalance makes the Maple Leafs easier to defend against, as opponents can focus on shutting down the top line.
Berube has been actively experimenting with line combinations to find the right mix of skill and grit. He wants to see players going to the net, being hard on the forecheck, and creating loose pucks. He has challenged players like Bobby McMann to step up and seize the opportunity to play in the top six, emphasizing the need for consistency and a strong work ethic.
The Maple Leafs' early-season schedule has been relatively favorable, with a number of games against non-playoff teams from last season. However, they have not fully capitalized on this opportunity, dropping points in games where they held early leads. This is a recurring pattern that Berube needs to address, as it suggests a mental block that can undermine the team's confidence.
Despite the challenges, there are also positive signs. The team's defensive system looks more organized, and there is a clear effort to collapse around the net and support the puck. Goaltender Anthony Stolarz, despite his recent frustrations, has shown the ability to steal games and provide stability in net.
Ultimately, the Maple Leafs' success this season will depend on their ability to fully embrace Berube's vision. This means playing with consistent effort, holding each other accountable, and prioritizing the team's success above individual accolades. If the Maple Leafs can commit to playing the way Berube promised, they have the potential to be a dangerous team in the playoffs. If not, they risk another disappointing season and further questions about their direction.
