Ryan Reaves reveals his true feelings after first practice under Craig Berube

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Daniel Lucente
September 22, 2024 (11:58)

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Ryan Reaves provided a very honest answer when he was asked by reporters to discuss how his first practice went under new head coach Craig Berube.

Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube got his first training camp underway this week, and by all early accounts, the effort he's putting into on-ice practices is already leaving a great mark. A tough, disciplined coach that he is, sessions under Berube have taken on a whole new level with the team, signaling a major difference from the former regime.

The veteran enforcer Ryan Reaves, for one, was asked about the start of camp and had nothing but glowing things to say about Berube's leadership. Reaves might not be the most skilled player on the team, but he has long been lauded for his physical condition and work ethic. To hear him endorse Berube's grueling practices is a good omen for Leafs Nation.

"Today was in my top two and it probably wasn't two"

- Ryan Reaves

It should be of some comfort to Maple Leafs fans that Berube's practices will be harder and more structured than those run by his predecessors. The team might finally get the lift they so desperately need, having been frustrated for so long under the previous coach Sheldon Keefe, who was considered short in vital ways to get full value from his players.

Reaves' comments suggest that Berube runs a tighter and more focused camp, big in putting a competitive team together. Keefe did his best, but it was hard to keep the players motivated enough to make them go to the next level. The no-nonsense style of Berube might bring the best out of the team and see it scale new highs this season.

With the Leafs scheduled to start their regular season on October 9th against the Montreal Canadiens, there is more reason for hope among fans that under Craig Berube, this might be a more disciplined and more motivated side. It could be the fresh approach that makes all the difference and pushes the Leafs toward the success these fans have been waiting for so long.