Craig Berube on uniting Matthews & Nylander on the top line amid the Leafs' struggles "They're arguably our two best players... Go out and control the game"

"It is going to be a better response, for sure. We scored the first goal (against the Senators), and then Ottawa had the better of the play the whole period. We just couldn't catch up to them. I expect a lot better tonight from our team."

"They're arguably our two best players, right? Go out and control the game. Do what you guys do best. We've scored one or two five-on-five goals in the last four games, going back to the Edmonton game. We need some offense, for sure, from those guys, but they have to be responsible defensively, too."

"With his speed, size, getting to the net front, getting in on the forecheck when he has to, and being physical. Again, get to the net. Those guys will get their opportunities, and there will be pucks around the net. That is where he can capitalize."

Head coach Craig Berube addressed the team's recent struggles and outlined expectations for the upcoming game against Philadelphia. He acknowledged disappointing results following the break despite strong practice performance, noting the team must fight to improve their situation. Berube reunited Auston Matthews and William Nylander on the top line, expecting them to control the game offensively while maintaining defensive responsibility. He highlighted the team's offensive drought, scoring only one or two five-on-five goals in four games. Bobby McMann was positioned as a complementary player who can use his speed, size, and net-front presence to capitalize on scoring opportunities created by the top line.

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