Craig Berube on David Kampf and the Marlies
Before Monday’s game against Pittsburgh, Craig Berube addressed several topics including the Cowan-Tavares-Nylander line, Chris Tanev’s condition, David Kampf stepping away from the Marlies, Bobby McMann’s morning skate situation, and Sammy Blais’ strong start with the Leafs.
Lines at Leafs Skate
- Knies – Matthews – Robertson
- Cowan – Tavares – Nylander
- Joshua – Roy – Maccelli
- Blais – Domi – Jarnkrok
- Laughton, McMann, Lorentz
- Rielly – Carlo
- Benoit – McCabe
- Ekman-Larsson – Myers
- Mermis
David Kampf Taking a Break
When asked about Kampf's frustration at camp and at the end of last season, Berube said:
“I didn’t see frustration in camp. He came in, and there was competition at camp. We have too many players, and we have to make decisions. His going down to the minors — he doesn’t feel like he wants to be down there, so that is his decision on what he does. That is all for him and Brad (Treliving) to figure out. I don’t have a whole lot to say on that situation.”
Cowan and Tavares Line Chemistry
Berube commented on the combination of Easton Cowan and John Tavares, with the possibility of William Nylander joining the line:
“To me, Cowboy really did a lot with the puck. He skated well through the neutral zone with it and made plays in the offensive zone. It looked like him and JT really read off of each other well and created some good scoring opportunities.”
He highlighted the strong connection between Cowan and Tavares as a promising factor for offense.
Other Player Updates
Berube briefly mentioned other team matters such as Bobby McMann not skating on a regular line during morning skate and praised Sammy Blais for his solid start in a Leafs jersey.
Author’s summary: Craig Berube expressed understanding of David Kampf’s decision to step back, praised the synergy between Cowan and Tavares, and shared brief insights on other Leafs players ahead of their game.