The Toronto Maple Leafs did enough late in the game on Friday to stay in it, but they still could not finish the job when it mattered. There were chances to close things out, yet the important plays did not go their way. Once the game ended, the focus was more on the postgame comments than the actual play.
That response played a role in how many people looked at the loss.
Why NHL Voices Pushed Back After Craig Berube Questioned Goaltending in OT Loss
The Toronto Maple Leafs lost 4-3 in overtime to the Carolina Hurricanes, with Alexander Nikishin scoring just 41 seconds into overtime. Toronto had tied the game in the third period through William Nylander, while John Tavares and Dakota Joshua also scored earlier. Even with that effort, the team could not secure the extra point.
Joseph Woll had a busy night and made 32 saves, helping Toronto stay in the game for long stretches. He handled several tough chances, including power-play pressure and rush opportunities. At the same time, the Hurricanes found ways to score in key moments, including a penalty shot and a short-handed breakaway, before ending it in overtime.
After the game, head coach Craig Berube pointed to those moments when speaking about the result. He said, “He’s played well, but tonight in the end — I don’t think, I know — we need a save, whether it’s the OT or it’s one of the breakaways. We need a big save there.”
READ MORE: Maple Leafs Star William Nylander’s $92 Million Deal Far From an Albatross, Per Sean McIndoe
Berube’s comment quickly drew attention because it placed focus on the goaltending. Several analysts and reporters did not agree with that view and shared their thoughts soon after.
Justin Bourne wrote, “Cannot imagine watching that game and being like ‘just some goaltending away from the dub,’” suggesting the game had bigger issues than one position.
That response led to more reactions, with Scott Wheeler posting, “Man oh man. Oblivious,” which pointed to frustration with the comment. Dan Riccio added another view, saying, “Was surprised to hear this one from Berube tonight … Woll was the only reason Leafs weren’t blown out,” highlighting how the goaltender kept the score close.
The discussion did not stop there, as the “Sports On Tap Detroit Podcast” also reacted with, “Absolutely absurd,” adding to the broader pushback. These responses focused on the idea that defensive play and missed chances played a larger role in the result.
Toronto’s recent stretch has added more pressure, as the team has gone 2-7-4 in its last 13 games. The Leafs now turn to their next game against the Ottawa Senators, hoping for a better result.
