Leafs Coach Berube Presses Top Management to Secure Key Depth Forward Signing

Toronto Maple Leafs fans, it appears head coach Craig Berube is sending a clear message to GM Brad Treliving as we approach the beginning of the NHL season.

He wants the front office to sign Stanley Cup champion from the Florida Panthers, Steven Lorentz after his standout performance in camp.

Berube's first preseason with the Leafs was about getting to know the players and seeing how they fit into his system. Every player on the roster has a role, and it's clear the bench boss sees Lorentz as a critical piece, especially after his impressive showing in the last preseason game against Detroit. Playing on the fourth line with David Kämpf and Ryan Reaves, Lorentz not only scored his first preseason goal but also helped control the game with his physical presence.

Berube was pumped as he found a line which played his desired north-south style and was consistently effective throughout the match.

The chemistry on that line was undeniable, and Berube wants to see it continue into the regular season. But for that to happen, Lorentz would need to be upgraded from his professional tryout (PTO) to an entire NHL contract on Monday.

Given his dream of playing for his hometown Leafs and his desire to win a Cup in Toronto, Lorentz is a perfect fit for what Berube wants, a significant, physical, hard-working presence on the fourth line. He should make this team and hear his name called on opening night.

However, there's a catch. The Leafs are over the salary cap and have a surplus of forwards, so if they want to keep Lorentz, some roster moves might be coming.

With the season opener against the Montreal Canadiens on October 9th, it's something to watch as the Leafs finalize their lineup.

Source: Maple Leafs Daily
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