Craig Berube Reveals Why He Scratched Underrated Forward Ahead of Crucial Game for Standings
Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube revealed why he made a surprise choice to scratch forward Nick Robertson in favor of veteran Calle Jarnkrok.
As the Maple Leafs head into Utah in order to try and end their three game losing streak, their lineup is going to look a lot different than previous games. Not only are newcomers Scott Laughton and Brandon Carlo making their second starts of the season, so has another veteran.
Calle Jarnkrok was unveiled as the winger on the fourth line with Steven Lorentz and David Kampf as opposed to Nick Robertson.
It was a bit of a surprise given how much better Robertson has been, but Jarnkrok needs to play to get back into the swing of things.
Head coach Craig Berube understands this, and explained the reason as to why he slotted in the veteran:
So why would Berube come to this decision?
Jarnkrok In, Robertson Out: Why Maple Leafs Went Defensive
It's been a rough stretch for Robertson over his last five games. He's only registered one assist, four shots on goal and is a minus-3. While he's thrown eight hits in that span, it's not the type of production Toronto needs, especially when they have to improve defensively.
In 55 games, Robertson has 17 points (11G, 7A) which is a fairly respectable stat line given his incredibly long cold streak to start the season.
Jarnkrok is a much better choice for that, and although he's not played this season minus one game; that's the caveat. He needs to play in order to make any sort of impact, and needs as many reps as possible to get back into shape in time for the playoffs.
There are other options though if Toronto wanted to keep Robertson in the lineup. Max Domi could use a break and he's done really nothing much this season either. Pontus Holmberg is great for drawing penalties but his inconsistency led to his demotion.
It's going to be a must-win game for the team as they head into Utah for their first ever meeting with the league's newest club.
Let's just hope the changes that Craig Berube made will pay off, if not; what else can he possibly do?
