Craig Berube on the message to the players with the Leafs eight points out of a playoff spot: "We have dug this hole... We have to dig ourselves out of it"

"What is your sense of the mindset of the group overall? Berube: The group is fine. They understand where we are and where we need to improve. Now, it is time for action. You have to go out and do it. We can all talk about it all we want, but it is about going out on the ice, executing, and doing it properly for 60 minutes."

"What is the message to the group as you embark on the pre-Olympic break four-game road trip? Berube: Obviously, it is a huge trip, starting with tonight's game. We are where we are. We have dug this hole. We have to dig ourselves out of it, starting tonight. That is the message."

"Did you chat with Anthony Stolarz after his first game back was a bit of a rough one against Vegas? Berube: When you look at him, the game, and the tape, he tried to do way too much. It is understandable, after being out that long and wanting to help your team. But he just needs to do what he is best at and focus on that. Sometimes, you come back, and you are a little too eager. You want to do too muc"

Craig Berube stated the four-game pre-Olympic road trip is a crucial stretch and the team must start digging out of the standings hole immediately. He said the group understands where they are and what needs improvement, and emphasized moving from talk to action through consistent execution for 60 minutes. He stressed the need to correct defensive mistakes after a poor homestand and warned against allowing games to get away. William Nylander is close to returning and could be available in Vancouver, with the decision made jointly with trainers. Anthony Stolarz was advised to simplify his game after trying to do too much on return.

Read at Maple Leafs Hotstove