‘You Gotta Figure That Side Of It Out’ — Craig Berube Makes Feelings Clear as Maple Leafs Go After 2-Time Cup Champ in Free Agency

[ASFN Admin]

You must be registered for see images attach

‘You Gotta Figure That Side Of It Out’ — Craig Berube Makes Feelings Clear as Maple Leafs Go After 2-Time Cup Champ in Free Agency

The Toronto Maple Leafs know championship windows do not stay open forever, and every major decision now carries added weight. After witnessing a disastrous season, expectations around the franchise are rising once again, and the front office is weighing whether a proven difference-maker can change the team’s postseason outlook.

One hockey voice sees a clear solution, and that opinion has only sharpened the debate over what Toronto must add to take the next step in the playoffs.

Craig Berube Urges Maple Leafs to Pursue Sergei Bobrovsky​

Former Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube believes Toronto should seriously pursue Sergei Bobrovsky if the opportunity presents itself.

Speaking on OverDrive, Berube made it clear he still views the two-time Stanley Cup champion and two-time Vezina Trophy winner as the type of goaltender capable of changing a team’s playoff outlook.

Berube praised Bobrovsky’s ability to elevate a contender, saying, “Well, he definitely could really bolster them. I mean, he’s the type of goalie who could carry a team, in my opinion.”

While acknowledging the veteran’s age, Berube also pointed out that workload management would become an important part of the equation. “Now, can he play the number of games he played in the past? Probably not with his age. You might have to figure that side of it out,” he explained.

Berube’s comments also highlighted the ripple effect such a signing would create throughout Toronto’s current goaltending group. Berube mentioned the waiver situation involving Dennis Hildeby while noting the organization would also have to decide whether Anthony Stolarz remains part of the long-term picture.

Even with those moving pieces, he left little doubt about his recommendation, saying, “But if I’m the Leafs, I definitely would be in that conversation to see if I could sign him.”

You must be registered for see images attach

Florida Panthers goalie Sergei Bobrovsky. Mandatory Credit: Mark Alberti-Imagn Images

Bobrovsky enters free agency after contract negotiations with the Florida Panthers broke down, making him the premier goaltender available on the open market. Reports indicate he is seeking a six-year contract worth approximately $42 million, although the length of that deal remains a key negotiating point because he turns 38 in September.

Toronto is one of the few contenders with enough cap flexibility to realistically explore that possibility. After moving Joseph Woll earlier and carrying more than $20 million in available cap space, the organization has room to make a major addition.

However, general manager John Chayka must also preserve enough flexibility to strengthen the forward group, particularly at third-line center.

Bobrovsky’s track record explains why the market around him has become so active. He helped lead Florida to consecutive Stanley Cup championships in 2024 and 2025, earning a reputation as one of the NHL’s most dependable playoff performers.

Although his regular-season numbers dipped during an injury-plagued campaign, many around the league still believe his postseason experience and leadership outweigh concerns about age.

KEEP READING:‘I Was Caught Off Guard’: Blue Jackets HC Shocked By Zach Werenski Trade Speculation as Maple Leafs, Dallas Stars Line Up

Whether Toronto ultimately lands the veteran netminder or not, Berube’s endorsement suggests the Maple Leafs should at least explore every avenue before passing on one of free agency’s biggest names.

Continue reading...