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Tricks.
That was the first word that came to mind for Maple Leafs coach Craig Berube when he asked Monday how his relationship with star forward William Nylander had progressed.
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“It’s a good relationship,” Berube told media in Florida kindly. “I never know what I’m going to get from Willie, you know?
“We have our opinions on certain things, but for the most part, I think we communicate very well with each other. He communicates with me, and vice versa.
“Personally, I really enjoy coaching him.”
It's an interesting way to put it, but we don't see it as a problem. Nylander needs support from his coach from time to time. He is also an important player for the Leafs, leading the club in scoring with 32 points in 21 games.
Among the problems Berube has to deal with on a Leafs team that currently has slim playoff hopes, Nylander isn't one of them. Not even close.
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The key in a relationship is the simple factor. Nylander handles criticism better than most, if not everyone, in blue and white. Berube knows he can give it to the 29-year-old every now and then and know it won't make Nylander sulk.
In truth, we believe that too much attention has been paid to public disputes between coach and player lately.
“He takes (criticism) very well,” Berube said. “I've had different guys over the years who were better at it than others. He's very good at it.”
Just recently the cameras caught Berube and Nylander chatted animatedly on the bench during the third period in Columbus last week. Nylander scored the game-winner in overtime against the Blue Jackets.
What did Berube say to Nylander?
“Honestly, I can’t remember, otherwise I would tell you,” Berube said. “I can't remember what it was.”
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