The Toronto Maple Leafs have been a team on the rise in recent years, thanks in large part to their Core 4 players – Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, William Nylander, and Morgan Rielly. However, despite retaining these key players, the team’s new head coach, Dave Berube, has wasted no time in implementing changes to the team’s playing style and overall approach.

One of the biggest changes Berube has made is a renewed focus on defensive play. While the Core 4 players are known for their offensive prowess, Berube believes that a strong defensive foundation is essential for success in the NHL. He has been working with the team on improving their positioning, communication, and overall defensive awareness in order to prevent goals against.

Another key change Berube has implemented is a greater emphasis on physicality and toughness. The Maple Leafs have often been criticized for being a finesse team that lacks grit and toughness, but Berube is determined to change that perception. He has been pushing his players to be more aggressive on the forecheck, to win battles along the boards, and to stand up for each other on the ice.

In addition to these on-ice changes, Berube has also been working on building a stronger team culture off the ice. He has emphasized the importance of accountability, work ethic, and unity among the players. Berube wants his team to be a tight-knit group that supports each other through thick and thin, and he believes that this will ultimately lead to success on the ice.

Overall, while the Core 4 players remain the backbone of the Toronto Maple Leafs, Dave Berube’s changes are aimed at taking the team to the next level. By focusing on defense, physicality, and team culture, Berube is hoping to build a team that is not only talented but also tough, resilient, and united. Only time will tell if these changes will pay off, but one thing is for certain – the Maple Leafs are in for an exciting season under their new head coach.