Bold opening: Dakota Joshua’s return and Easton Cowan’s silence for weeks highlight a crucial crossroads for the team as they push toward the playoffs. But here’s where it gets controversial: is Mike Berube balancing development with results, or leaning too much on familiar names at the expense of younger players?
Ahead of Thursday night’s clash with the Florida Panthers, coach Craig Berube spoke about Dakota Joshua rejoining the lineup, Easton Cowan’s absence from game action since late January, and the looming challenge from a Panthers squad fighting for their postseason lives.
What should we expect from Dakota Joshua after a long layoff?
Berube: I value the extra size Joshua brings against a team like Florida. He had a solid week of practice and, for tonight, the emphasis is on keeping things simple and getting his feet moving. There will be moments where he hits a wall, but he has to push through them. It’s his first game back after a long break, and we’re excited to have him.
Joshua showed progress throughout the week—growing more comfortable and feeling better step by step—but a real game is different. He’ll likely fatigue at times, which is natural after time off. Our job is to manage that and read how he looks on the ice as the game unfolds.
Easton Cowan has not played since late January. What’s your read on his mindset right now?
Berube: Cowan has logged a solid number of games this season. When I pulled him from the lineup, he seemed to hit a bit of a wall. We won three straight, so I kept the lineup for the game against Tampa and moved forward.
These are decisions I make as a coach. I don’t think Cowan’s development is being harmed; if anything, he’s grown this year and still carries the swagger and confidence you want in a young player.
That said, he needs to be in the lineup to keep growing. Our job is to find the right moment and place for him.
How will you integrate Cowan when you decide to bring him back?
Berube: We have to make decisions based on practical considerations. It’s a matter of balancing roles, ice time, and the team’s immediate needs.
What’s your role in the trade deadline discussions, and how does this year compare to St. Louis with Doug Armstrong?
Berube: As a coach, there are always conversations where you share thoughts with the front office. A general manager runs the show, but you’re consulted on what could help the team. The process here isn’t any different from past seasons.
Do the players feel deadline noise at all?
Berube: I don’t sense it this moment. It’s natural to hear the chatter, and it can be distracting, but that’s part of being a pro. The focus has to stay on playing. Right now, it’s about tonight’s game—you’re a Leaf for the moment, so zero in on the matchup.
What message did you deliver after the Tampa loss?
Berube: Short-term memory is key. We learn from mistakes and adjust, but we can’t dwell on them. Tonight is a new challenge against two teams fighting for a playoff spot. Florida is always a tough test, so we turn the page and prepare for them.
How different are these Panthers from the ones they were last spring when they pushed to a Cup win?
Berube: They’re different in several ways—from injuries to new players and new tactical looks. The core dynamics have shifted, as have both teams’ trajectories and the way the hockey is played this season.
