The Craig Berube era in Toronto is already making headlines—and not just for what’s happening on the ice.
In a stunning and crystal-clear move, the newly appointed Toronto Maple Leafs head coach has reportedly signaled a major shakeup involving defenseman Timothy Liljegren, a once highly-rated blue line prospective who now finds himself squarely in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons.
According to CBS News, Berube has sent what sources are calling an unmistakable “part ways” message to Liljegren, stemming from reported concerns over the player’s off-ice attitude and commitment. While exact details are still emerging, it’s clear that Berube—known for his no-nonsense, accountability-first coaching style—is wasting no time setting the tone for his tenure.
“Accountability will be the standard,” Berube reportedly told Leafs brass during internal meetings, and Liljegren may now be the first high-profile casualty of that culture shift.
Liljegren’s Fall From Favor
Once seen as a cornerstone of the Leafs’ future blue line, Liljegren’s development has been marred by inconsistency and, more recently, questions about his focus and professionalism. With multiple young defensemen waiting in the wings—and Berube wanting to build a tougher, more disciplined roster—the writing may be on the wall.
League insiders are already speculating that Toronto could look to move Liljegren as early as the NHL Draft this summer, using him as a trade chip to either acquire veteran defensive depth or move up in the draft order.
What This Means for the Leafs
Berube’s message is clear: no one is safe, and reputation means nothing without results. This marks a dramatic cultural shift from previous coaching regimes in Toronto, where younger players were often given lengthy leashes despite inconsistency.
If Liljegren is indeed on his way out, it opens the door for players like Topi Niemelä or Mikko Kokkonen to seize a roster spot heading into the 2025–26 season.
A New Era Begins
For Leafs fans, this is both exciting and jarring. The Leafs are clearly entering a new phase—one where performance, not potential, dictates opportunity.
Liljegren’s story in Toronto may be nearing its end, but for Craig Berube, it’s just the beginning