Maple Leafs HC Craig Berube hints at potential lineup changes ahead of NHL preseason

Toronto Maple Leafs coach Craig Berube addressed possible lineup changes heading into the NHL preseason. In an interview published Sept. 9 in The Athletic, Jonas Siegel discussed various topics with the Maple Leafs’ second-year coach, including potential lineup shifts

One notable possibility involves moving William Nylander to the top line with Auston Matthews and Matthew Knies. Berube said:

“That’s a good question, because you can always think you can throw Willy up there. But I think that adding Joshua, Roy and Maccelli gives us more balance and maybe we’re just a little deeper four-line team.”

Berube emphasized the importance of keeping Nylander with John Tavares, given their chemistry.

“And keeping Willy with (John Tavares), I really like that pair too. So, I don’t mind a balance, to be honest with you."

Craig Berube’s goal is to roll out three to four lines consistently throughout the season. That was the motivation behind acquiring Matias Maccelli, Dakota Joshua and Nic Roy this offseason, giving Toronto the ability to ice a deeper lineup.

The coach stressed that he is not trying to directly replace Mitch Marner in the lineup. While Marner’s departure left a hole on the top line, Berube said the aim is to build a new identity rather than simply plug someone into Marner’s former spot.

Craig Berube planning to keep Matthews, Knies together in Maple Leafs lineup

Craig Berube also said he intends to keep Auston Matthews and Matthew Knies on the same line, noting the pair showed strong chemistry last season.

Berube said:

“I think Auston and (Knies) have been a good pair here, all of last year. I thought they worked really well together. I think it’s a good combination there.”

The size and skill of Matthews and Knies make for a promising duo, though Berube declined to commit to a permanent third linemate. Instead, he hinted that several players could rotate in during training camp.

Berube added:

“And I’ve always worked in pairs more than lines. So I think Knies and Matthews are a good pair and it might be popping guys in and out of there in different situations sometimes. We gotta test it out in camp and see where we’re at."

Berube’s noncommittal tone shouldn’t be cause for concern among fans. Rather, it signals the potential for fresh combinations as the Maple Leafs prepare for the season.