During a recent interview with the NHL Network, former NHL head coach Bruce Boudreau feels the Toronto Maple Leafs will thrive under new head coach Craig Berube.
«Well, first of all, everything I've heard about Craig is that the players love playing for him,» Boudreau began. «So, I mean, I think they're going to automatically, especially in a first-year, first-time coach with the Leafs, and it's probably different than most of the players have been in. I think they'll buy in right away. That I think is going to be a given.»
Boudreau noted that the styles between former head coach Sheldon Keefe and the current style of Berube are vastly different as Berube preaches a defense first style hockey which could bode well for the Maple Leafs.
Over the past couple of months, General Manager Brad Treliving has made several upgrades to the Maple Leafs defense which include acquiring Chris Tanev, and Oliver Ekman-Larsson while subtracting much maligned defenseman TJ Brodie and Mark Giordano.
Boudreau continued on stating:
«Secondly, his coaching style is a lot different than Sheldon's (Keefe). He is thinking defense first,» Boudreau explained. «I think if the Leafs become a better defensive team, it's not a question of whether they make the playoffs - it's a question of how far they can go.»
Having a much better defensive first strategy will give the Maple Leafs more longevity in the season and into the playoffs while the offense will continue to do what it does best knowing that there's a good chance the puck may not go in the net as often.
The Maple Leafs will also thrive under Berube as he has an accountability factor that many coaches do not follow including Sheldon Keefe. Berube has never shied away from calling out his players if it was warranted but he will also praise his players and will give them the best chance to be successful which will be handed back in loyalty.
The dressing room and the bench will look very different this year and all the fans will have to wait and watch and see how the players respond to their new "Chief."
