HC Craig Berube shares his feelings on the injury to former Maple Leafs captain John Tavares

Toronto Maple Leafs coach Craig Berube spoke about the injury to John Tavares, who is now on injured reserve (IR) with a lower-body issue. Tavares was placed on IR after going down during practice on Wednesday.

“Maple Leafs F John Tavares has been placed on IR (lower body). F Fraser Minten has been recalled from the Toronto Marlies (AHL),” Leafs PR announced Thursday.

They did a follow-up tweet about his status.

“F John Tavares is listed as week-to-week,” Leafs PR wrote.

Tavares was a key player for Maple Leafs this season scoring 20 goals and 22 assists in 44 games. He was important in the wins, with 34 points in 26 wins. His absence will be felt, but Berube believes the team must move forward.

“Yeah, they announced week-to-week right now,” Berube said Thursday before the New Jersey Devils game (08:28). “So, yeah, it’s an accident in practice, you know, it’s just, uh, bad luck. But, um, you know, it is what it is, and we have to move on right now.”

Berube also reflected on Tavares’ performance this season.

Well, everything, said Berube. “I mean, I think you see his production and what he’s done and his leadership, and, you know, he’s been an easy guy in all situations, and, uh, he’s done a really good job for us.”

The Toronto Maple Leafs have a record of 27-16-2 and are first in the Atlantic Division with 56 points.

Craig Berube talked about strategy in the absence of John Tavares

Craig Berube talked about how the Leafs responded well when Auston Matthews was injured at the beginning of the season. He hopes the team can continue to play a strong team game.

“We have to stick to the program here (relying on the check),” Berube said.

Berube added that Max Domi will take Tavares’ place in the top six. Domi has played with William Nylander before and can provide offense.

“I think Max Domi is moving up to that spot for me now,” Berube said. “I’ve used him there before with Nylander. So for me, he’s a guy that can go in there and provide some offensive and good playmaking ability. So we’re going to need that from him.”

Although John Tavares’ injury is a major setback for Toronto, the team hopes to remain competitive while he recovers. The Leafs have lost their last three games. They will look to get back New Jersey Devils at Scotiabank Arena on Thursday.