Craig Berube on the Panthers' "mean" game: "Are they mean? They are physical and in your face the whole game, but I don't necessarily think it is mean... We are physical, too"

Following practice on May 4, head coach Craig Berube celebrated Mitch Marner's new role as a dad while discussing the Toronto Maple Leafs' playoff challenges. Berube expressed excitement for Marner and shared insights on the emotional impact of becoming a parent during the playoffs. The coach emphasized the challenge the Leafs face against the skilled line of Aleksander Barkov, underscoring the necessity for careful defensive play. Overall, the discussion highlighted the mix of personal joy and intense competition inherent to the playoff atmosphere.

As a dad, you are always kind of on edge and thinking about things. It all worked out, which is great. We are very happy for him.

A baby's arrival provides a new perspective. It's a different feeling, for sure. It is one of the best feelings you'll ever have.

Marner and Auston Matthews against Aleksander Barkov's line will be a big test. They are very good 200-foot players with offensive abilities.

It is always a challenge playing against great players like them. They have to do a good job of checking.

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