Craig Berube on the signs of progress in the Leafs' game: "The last four periods of hockey are some of the best we've played this year"

"Berube: Yeah, I didn't mind it at all. He is that type of guy who is going to do what he has to do for his teammate. I have no problem with it. You've highlighted Laughton's chatter on the bench. In what ways does his influence the team with his voice? Berube: He has energy. That's just him: a talkative guy, a team guy, and a good character guy who has been around for a long time and understands the game very well."

"Why did it take so long to get there? Berube: I don't know. There has been a lot of good hockey, but not consistently for 60 minutes. That is a challenge all the time early on in the season, but definitely, the last four periods of hockey are some of the best we've played this year - not just the scoring part, but the all-around game of how we want to play."

Scott Laughton returned and accepted a penalty while defending his goalie, reflecting a willingness to protect teammates. Laughton brings energy, vocal bench leadership, and strong character, with his presence alongside Steven Lorentz increasing chatter and intensity on the bench. The team produced its most consistent stretch across the last four periods but has struggled to sustain high-level play for the full 60 minutes earlier in the season. The club plans to build on that consistency and start games stronger. The north-south, cycle style is identified as the successful recipe needed against Boston. Brandon Carlo has become more assertive and aggressive in recent games. Zdeno Chara was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Read at Maple Leafs Hotstove