When Dakota Joshua arrived in Toronto, there were questionsânot about his talent, but about his impact. Auston Matthewsâ Maple Leafs were under scrutiny for a relatively quiet offseason, and Joshuaâs acquisition didnât immediately resonate as a game-changer. But the gritty forward is already carving out his space, ready to prove that he belongs.
Joshuaâs hard-nosed style fits perfectly within new head coach Craig Berubeâs blueprint. Itâs more than just a tactical fitâthe two share a connection that dates back to Joshuaâs NHL debut. That shared history is quickly becoming one of the more compelling subplots of Torontoâs new era.
In a recent appearance on Leafs Morning Take, Joshua offered an emotional acknowledgment of Berubeâs role in his career, underscoring the depth of their bond and the coachâs reputation for developing young players.
Joshuaâs message
Before establishing himself as a reliable NHL forward, Dakota Joshua was just a prospect looking for a chance. That opportunity came in St. Louis, where Berube was behind the bench.
Dakota Joshua #81 with the Vancouver Canucks skates in the third period against the Winnipeg Jets at Canada Life Centre on March 30, 2025 in Winnipeg, Canada. (Photo by Cameron Bartlett/Getty Images)
âHeâs a great guy and great coach, obviously he was the one who gave me my first shot in the league, and Iâll forever be thankful to him for that,â Joshua said during the podcast.
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Whoâs next to benefit in Toronto?
Torontoâs current roster leans older, but Berubeâs presence could still ignite growth among its younger contingent. Two names to watch: Nick Robertson and Easton Cowan.
Robertson needs a structured environment to refine his game and reach his full potential. Cowan, on the other hand, may be on the verge of a Joshua-like leap if given the right mentorship. Both players are entering pivotal seasons, and Berubeâs guidance could be the difference.
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More importantly, with a full training camp and year of experience under Berubeâs leadership, the Auston Matthewsâ Maple Leafs are better positioned for internal growth and on-ice consistency.
