Date: October 29, 2025
Source: Toronto Maple Leafs (YouTube)
Before facing the Columbus Blue Jackets, Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube met with reporters to discuss lineup decisions, the team’s puck management on the second half of a back-to-back, and the play of key contributors including Auston Matthews and William Nylander. Berube also shared thoughts on Cayden Primeau starting in net and Sammy Blais drawing into the lineup.
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On Lineup Changes
“Blais will be in, Nylander out. He’s just not able to go tonight. Robertson’s up, and Cayden will start in net.”
On Takeaways from Last Night’s Game
“I thought our puck management was pretty good overall. There were some turnovers that cost us, but for the most part we played direct and generated almost 40 shots. You have to play smart on back-to-backs — I think we only gave up one or two odd-man rushes, which is a big improvement. We’ve got to stay with that because this team can go.”
On the Blue Line’s Play Without Chris Tanev
“I think they’ve done a good job. The pairs looked good last night, they were strong on the kill, and moved the puck well out of our zone. They’ve handled the adjustment the right way.”
On Adam Fantilli and the Blue Jackets’ Skill
“He’s a good player — got all the tools. They’ve got a lot of talent that can skate and move pucks. Starting with Werenski on the back end — he’s a handful.”
On the City’s Sports Focus
“The Jays are in the World Series — that’s deserving. There’s only one team in Canada right now and the country’s focused on that, especially here in Toronto. That’s the right thing.”
On Managing Back-to-Back Games
“In the second game, after travel, you have to play with intelligence. It’s about understanding situations, getting pucks deep on line changes, and being above people. You’ve got to be patient in your game and make smart decisions.”
On Auston Matthews’ Play Lately
“The only difference has been his wingers. McMann’s been with him, and he’s getting looks. I liked the way he attacked on the power play last night — he had seven or eight attempts just on the PP. Everyone focuses on one area of his game, but I’m looking at all of it, and it’s pretty good.”
On Sammy Blais Drawing Into the Lineup
“Sammy’s going to play his game. He’s a physical player who forechecks hard and can make things happen in tight areas. He’s got good hands in those spots. He’ll bring energy tonight.”
On William Nylander’s Status
“I’m not concerned. He’s getting better. He thought he could play last game, and he did — I thought he played fine. He did some good things, helped us win, and now he’s managing it. If he says he can play, I want him to play, but if he says he can’t do certain things, then we manage that.”
Pulse Takeaway
Craig Berube stressed composure and smart decision-making as the Leafs look to close out their back-to-back set. With Cayden Primeau getting the start, Sammy Blais joining the lineup, and William Nylander being managed carefully, the message remains consistent — play direct, stay above pucks, and trust the system to create offense without sacrificing structure.
Quotes from Craig Berube via Toronto Maple Leafs (YouTube). Used for analysis and commentary.