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The Toronto Maple Leafs have a glaring coaching issue that needs to be corrected, according to top analyst Nick Kypreos.
Putting the pressure on Leafs head coach Craig Berube, Kypreos spoke openly on a potential concern that the Toronto Maple Leafs have that has become a serious issue for the team in recent games.
Kypreos notes that as the season goes on, teams have to adapt and find new ways to win as old methods start to become predictable and the players will need to adjust accordingly.
For him, the Toronto Maple Leafs may have one issue that could make winning difficult in the coming months if things aren't fixed.
Kypreos calls out potential risk for Maple Leafs
Nick Kypreos called out the Toronto Maple Leafs on their struggles in recent games, seeing certain aspects of their game that are cause for concern.
The former Maple Leaf pointed specifically to the team's offence, saying the Leafs need to change up what they're doing or be left behind when it matters:
"I'm a little concerned that what worked in the first half is starting to tighten up. We've always said it gets harder as the season goes on, especially in the first round when teams have a full week to prepare. Every player, every tendency, every system gets game-planned against.
"You have to make adjustments. I keep seeing the same thing over and over again from the Leafs, just pucks to the net, get it in deep. But sometimes there are too many low-quality shots from bad angles, and it's one and done."
“You gotta make adjustments… I see the same thing over and over again out of the Toronto Maple Leafs.”@RealKyper, @jtbourne & @SamAMcKee question the rigidity of Craig Berube's coaching philosophy. #LeafsForever
— Sportsnet 590 The FAN (@FAN590) January 30, 2025
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He makes clear that it's up to Craig Berube to be different in how he goes about his game plan, warning against sticking to one style.
On the players' end, it will be the job of execution, proving they can be versatile on the ice and comfortable with change.
Toronto is currently 12th in goals scored leaguewide, something that, while a positive for most teams, is a concern for the Leafs, who have consistently been in the top 10 in the past few years.
The Leafs have also struggled with a lack of offensive help from their depth players. The team have just six players with 10 or more goals, and eight skaters with fewer than 10 points with at least 10 games played.
Although on the ice the Leafs are lacking a necessary offensive punch that may require a trade to add to their lack of scoring, it's made clear that for Craig Berube, it's adapt your weaknesses or they'll come back to bite you when it counts.
More must-reads:
- Maple Leafs’ Struggles in One Area Highlight Tavares’ Importance
- Leafs GM urged to pursue rising star defenseman following shocking move
- The 'Highest paid NHL players in 2024-25' quiz
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