Date: November 3, 2025
Source: Toronto Maple Leafs (YouTube)
Ahead of tonight’s matchup vs. the Pittsburgh Penguins, head coach Craig Berube discussed Easton Cowan’s fit with John Tavares, William Nylander’s return, the power play, Chris Tanev’s status, and how Toronto will adjust on the blue line.
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On Cowan with Tavares (and Nylander returning)
“Cowboy really did a lot with the puck. Skated well through the neutral zone, made plays in the offensive zone. He and JT read off each other well and created some really good scoring opportunities. Cowan has the ability to make those little plays in tight and five-foot plays.”
On Cowan’s progress since Game 1
“Big difference. He kind of went up and down a little bit. The first couple games he was playing on emotion and it always tends to dip a little, but he looks like he’s got his energy back. I was really impressed with his last game in Philly.”
On why Cowan’s getting PP1 looks
“We’re not making enough plays on the power play. I talk out of both ends of my mouth because we’re shooting pucks — I think we’re top five in the league for shots on the power play — but we’re not getting results. You have to be able to make plays and he really sees those plays, like in the bumper or going to the goal line. Hopefully that can trigger something and get some better looks in tight.”
On lineup decisions tonight
“Bobby McMann is not out. I’ve got decisions to make at game time.”
On Chris Tanev’s status
“He’s doing fine. He’s back home, stayed overnight for precautionary reasons, but he’s back here and in a good spot.”
On the challenge without Tanev
“It’s a challenge because he does a lot. We all know that. But Myers is coming in and he’s done a good job when he’s come in. He’s been a very good defenseman for us in those situations. It is what it is. There are injuries in the game and you have to move on — next guy up, let’s go.”
On the Penguins under their new coach
“They’re playing with some real spirit and energy. It’s a different system than they’re used to. Crosby’s playing well, Malkin’s playing well, Karlsson’s playing well — their big boys are playing well.”
On what he wants from Bobby right now
“Early on I saw the player I wanted to see — aggressive, physical, winning battles, getting scoring opportunities. It’s dipped a little. It’s just about mindset with him. He’s playing a little too safe at times and needs to play more aggressively and do what we need from him.”
On David Kämpf’s Marlies situation
“I didn’t see frustration in camp. He came in, there was competition, and he had to fight for a spot. We have too many players and have to make decisions. Him going down to the minors — he doesn’t feel like he wants to be down there. That’s his decision. That’s for Brad and him to figure out. I don’t have a whole lot to say on that situation.”
On Nylander after a few days off
“He feels a lot better. He was out, felt he could contribute in the Calgary game — which he did — but it kind of set him back a little. He’s had more time to rest up. He feels good and he’s ready to go.”
On Sammy Blais’ impact
“Blaiser’s come in and done what we’ve asked. He’s physical and disrupts the other team with his physicality, but he’s got puck skills too. Just have to keep him dialed in and focused.”
On the Leafs’ room
“It’s camaraderie, good teammates. Guys look forward to coming to the locker room, being around the rink, being around each other and wanting to be around each other. We have that. These guys really like each other, and the locker room’s fine.”
Pulse Takeaway
Berube praised Easton Cowan’s puck play and chemistry with John Tavares, explained the PP1 look for Cowan to spark more creativity, confirmed Nylander is fully ready to return, and said the Leafs will go “next guy up” with Myers filling in while Tanev recovers. He also called for a more aggressive approach from Bobby and emphasized strong camaraderie in the locker room.
Source video: Toronto Maple Leafs (YouTube). Quotes have been lightly edited for clarity and length.
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