Craig Berube's arrival in Toronto has signaled more than just a change behind the bench; it represents a potential culture reset for the Maple Leafs. Tasked with transforming a team known for regular-season success but playoff struggles, Berube is implementing a system built on accountability, communication, and a team-first mentality.

One of Berube's primary focuses is instilling a clear, structured system that the players fully embrace. Unlike previous years where the team's structure would falter under pressure, Berube's Maple Leafs are showing a commitment to their game plan, especially without the puck. This has led to the development of a real defensive identity, limiting chaos in front of the net and consistently clearing traffic, which in turn has created an environment where goaltenders can thrive.

Berube's coaching style is characterized by his direct and honest communication with players. He emphasizes the importance of a partnership with his players, built on mutual understanding and trust. By clearly communicating expectations and providing both positive and constructive feedback, Berube ensures that players know where they stand and what they need to improve upon. This approach fosters accountability across the entire roster, a key element in Berube's plan to reshape the Maple Leafs' identity.

While Berube's system encourages a team-first approach, he also understands the importance of allowing Toronto's star players to lead offensively. Players like Auston Matthews and William Nylander are still expected to contribute significantly to the team's offense, but within a more structured and defensively responsible framework. Berube isn't handing out "free passes," even to franchise players, pushing them to improve their all-around game. For instance, Nylander is being challenged to round out his 200-foot game, while Matthews is relied upon to set the tone at both ends of the ice.

Berube has also demonstrated a willingness to adapt and adjust his approach based on the players at his disposal. Instead of forcing players into roles that don't fit, he experiments with different line combinations and evaluates player performance in real-time. This adaptability has led to the emergence of key depth contributors, such as Stephen Lorentz, who signed after a professional tryout and became an important part of the team's bottom six. The line of Lorentz, Scott Laughton, and Calle Järnkrok added a physical and responsible edge to the Maple Leafs' game.

Berube's emphasis on structure, tenacity, and communication has resonated with the players. Auston Matthews noted that the new standard is about "putting the team first in all aspects" and "doing things the right way, no matter what the situation or what the game brings". Berube's focus on the process, rather than just the outcomes, is also helping the team maintain a consistent level of play. He wants the team to keep pushing, playing smart, checking, not opening the game up, not forcing pucks, and making good puck decisions.

Berube's track record speaks for itself. He transformed the St. Louis Blues from a last-place team into Stanley Cup champions in a few months through structure, accountability, and total team buy-in. This experience has instilled confidence in Maple Leafs fans that Berube can bring a winning culture to Toronto.