Craig Berube reacts after Max Domi finally gets his first goal of the season

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Will Bloggs
December 16, 2024 (2:34 PM)

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As seen on the Maple Leafs Hot Stove, Craig Berube's gave some comments after the Toronto Maple Leafs' 5-3 win over the Buffalo Sabres.

On coming back from a 3-1 deficit during the game:

"We had good intentions in the first period, but we took a penalty on the first shift and fell behind. After the first seven minutes, we started to take over. The guys battled hard-every line was solid, worked hard, competed, and stayed with it. We had a great third period. Our leaders stepped up and did a really good job tonight."

On moving William Nylander with Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner's on the same line:

"I thought I could match Tavares with Knies and Pacioretty against the Thompson line, which is big and heavy. I didn't want Matthews facing them too often. We were down, so I wanted to change things up and give some different looks. It worked out."

On how the third line of Max Domi, Nick Robertson and Bobby McMann played:

"They played excellently-more engaged physically, battling for pucks. That line was excellent, and we needed that from them."

"It feels good, trust me. He wasn't happy about not producing. We need him to play the way he did tonight-more engaged."

Max Domi snapping his 16-game streak with his first goal of the season was a significant moment for both him and the team.

It's no secret that Max Domi want to continue contributing offensively and his frustration had been growing.

Scoring that goal wasn't just a relief for him, but it also demonstrated what he can bring when he plays with the intensity and engagement the Leafs need.

On generating 40 shots and scoring five goals during the match:

"You won't get 40 shots every night, but that's the mindset. In the last three games, our shot attempts have been up, and we hit the net more. The attitude is about shooting, being direct, and not being cute. Our defensemen are looking to shoot right off faceoffs, and we're getting to the net."

On John Tavares consistent production since the beginning of the season with 28 points so far:

"He just keeps working. He has a heavy stick, he's smart, and he competes. Even at his age, he works on his game constantly. He's been excellent for us."

On his 300th career win:

"That's a lot of coaches! I have a long way to go (laughs). I didn't know about it, but I'm obviously happy."

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DECEMBRE 16 \| 244 ANSWERS Craig Berube reacts after Max Domi finally gets his first goal of the season Do you think Max Domi will play better i the second half of the NHL season?
Yes	218	89.3 %
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