Craig Berube on Auston Matthews' reduced goal-scoring rate: "He's getting the opportunities, and that hasn't really changed from last year... It's just not going in as much"
Briefly

Head coach Craig Berube addressed concerns surrounding Auston Matthews' reduced goal-scoring rate this season, noting he continues to generate opportunities. Berube emphasized the importance of Matthews' overall game, including his defensive contributions. Additionally, he discussed the rationale behind adjusting line combinations to prevent staleness amongst players. Berube is optimistic about the upcoming homestand, leveraging last change advantage and reinforcing the need to stick to their identity over the full game duration, focusing on energy levels and strategic low-event play.
Berube discussed that while Auston Matthews is struggling to score, he continues to get opportunities and contribute positively to the team defensively.
Discussing line changes, Berube noted that players can become stale after long-term play together, and fresh combinations may enhance depth.
On the importance of last change during the homestand, Berube emphasized the need to build on recent good performances and maintain their low-event game strategy.
Berube acknowledged the challenge of maintaining team identity for a full 60 minutes, tying it to the players' energy levels.
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