Berube Talks Panthers Rematch, Matthews’ Return, and Nylander Dynamic as Leafs Prep in Florida
As the Maple Leafs gear up for their first meeting with the Panthers since that heartbreaking Game 7 last spring, head coach Craig Berube isn’t dwelling on the past. After Monday’s practice in Florida, Berube spoke with reporters about the team’s mindset, Auston Matthews finding his rhythm again, and the evolving relationship with William Nylander. He also touched on key lineup decisions and player performances that are shaping the Leafs’ current form.
No Looking Back-But Lessons Remain
When asked if last spring’s playoff exit against Florida is being used as fuel, Berube made it clear: the focus is forward.
“I don’t think you look at the one game,” he said. “It was a big game, obviously, but we look at the series-where we were at, and what we could’ve done better to move on.”
That’s the tone Berube is setting. It’s not about revenge or reliving the pain of a Game 7 loss. It’s about building off their recent win in Pittsburgh and continuing the momentum.
“We are motivated,” he added. “We’ve got to do things a certain way to be successful.
We’ll try to get that win tomorrow. That is where we’re at.”
Matthews Heating Up
Auston Matthews returned from injury recently, and while it’s taken a few games to get back into rhythm, he’s starting to look more like himself. His goal against Pittsburgh wasn’t just a confidence booster-it was a vintage Matthews snipe from distance, the kind of shot that’s become his signature.
“What was good about it for me was that it was a distance shot,” Berube said. “He has scored a lot of goals that way in his career, and it was good to see that one go in. His shot can beat goalies from distance.”
Berube noted Matthews is starting to feel more comfortable, especially on the power play where he’s getting more touches and more chances to let that lethal shot fly.
“He is getting better looks. The puck is on his stick a lot, which we like right now.”
OEL’s Quiet Excellence
Oliver Ekman-Larsson has been quietly piling up points this season, but it’s not just the production that stands out to Berube-it’s the all-around game.
“He has a full package that way,” Berube said. “He likes to be physical and be involved.
He has the ability to shoot pucks and make plays… He is a selfless player. He does what we ask of him in terms of where to play-left side or right side.”
OEL’s versatility and willingness to adapt have made him a key piece on the Leafs’ blue line, and his chemistry with Morgan Rielly is starting to click.
“There’s really good puck movement between the two of them,” Berube said. “They activate into the play, and in the offensive zone, they have movement and create chaos for the other team.”
Stecher’s Impact and McCabe’s Fit
Troy Stecher has only played six games with the Leafs this season, but he’s already made a strong impression.
“He plays with a lot of pace and closes on people quickly,” Berube said. “He moves his feet really well.
He’s simple with the puck and makes the first pass. He’s been defending hard at our net.
He’s been a good player for us since he got here.”
Stecher’s strong play has earned him a spot alongside Jake McCabe, and Berube likes what he sees-especially with McCabe back on his natural left side.
“Caber was a lot better on the left in that game,” Berube said. “It’s not that he hasn’t done a good job on the right, but I would like him on the left as much as possible. He and Stecher were good together the other night.”
With Simon Benoit back in the mix, the coaching staff will need to shuffle things again, but Stecher’s play is making those decisions more interesting.
Carlo Setback
Brandon Carlo, dealing with an injury, has returned to Toronto to be evaluated by doctors. Berube called it “more of a setback” and said the team expects more clarity within the next 24 hours.
The Nylander Dynamic
Berube also reflected on his relationship with William Nylander, which has grown in his second season coaching the dynamic winger.
“It’s tricky,” Berube said with a laugh. “No, it’s a good relationship.
I never know what I’m going to get from Willy. He keeps me on my toes.”
That unpredictability seems to be part of what makes the relationship work. There’s mutual respect, open communication, and a willingness to challenge each other.
“We have our opinions about certain things, but for the most part, we communicate really well together,” Berube said. “I’ve really enjoyed the challenge of coaching him.”
And when it comes to taking feedback, Berube says Nylander handles it like a pro.
“He takes it really well. I’ve had different guys over the years who can take it better than others. He is very good at it.”
Practice Lines - Dec. 1 (Florida)
Here’s how the Leafs lined up at practice:
Forwards
- Knies - Matthews - Domi
- Cowan - Tavares - Nylander
- Joshua - Roy - McMann
- Lorentz - Laughton - Robertson
- Jarnkrok, Maccelli (extras)
Defense
- Rielly - Ekman-Larsson
- McCabe - Stecher
- Benoit - Myers
- Mermis (extra)
Goaltenders
- Woll
- Hildeby
With a rematch against Florida looming, the Leafs are walking the line between learning from the past and focusing on the now. Matthews is rounding into form, the blue line is finding balance, and Berube’s voice is steady as ever. There’s no panic-just a team trying to keep building, one game at a time.