Head coach Craig Berube has sent his team a clear and forceful message. And the moment must happen none too soon. Now is the time for the Toronto Maple Leafs. With the Maple Leafs facing a scoring slump and struggling to find their rhythm, Berube stresses the importance of upping the battle level and urgency as they approach the season’s final stretch. His recent words to the team mirror his belief that the Maple Leafs must be more hungry. They need to attack each game with aggression if they are going to succeed down the stretch.
Can the Maple Leafs Frustration Lead to Awareness?
Berube shared his thoughts on the team’s current mindset. He pointed out that the players have been frustrated by their recent performances. His players understand and are not happy. For the Maple Leafs head coach, that’s a good thing. He believes it shows they care and know things need to change. The message from Berube is simple: it’s time to stop waiting for things to happen and start taking control of their destiny.
The focus is on urgency—especially when the game is on the line. Berube wants the Maple Leafs to bring that intensity throughout the game, not just in desperate situations. He noted that in the last game against the Ottawa Senators, the Maple Leafs lacked the hunger to compete at a high level, leading to a disappointing loss. He thought the Senators were more hungry than his team was. Berube added that the Maple Leafs must match that intensity, particularly when their playoff positioning is on the line.
The Maple Leafs Need to Take It One Game at a Time
Looking ahead, Berube stressed the importance of taking one game at a time. He’s focusing on tonight’s game against the Calgary Flames. Still, he noted that the team has two games in hand and must take care of its own business. First, focus on tonight’s game. From there, take it game by game.
His message is not just about today’s game—it’s about setting the tone for the rest of the season and pushing forward with a renewed sense of urgency.
Berube’s message is clear: the Maple Leafs must elevate their urgency, battle level, and intensity in every game. If they don’t, they’ll soon fall into a lull and out of playoff contention. The clock is ticking, and the Maple Leafs need to act with purpose, starting with tonight’s game.
