After Tuesday's practice, head coach Craig Berube shared insights on a range of topics, including the progress of goalie Anthony Stolarz, the dynamic duo of Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner, low shot totals from Game 4, and the buzz surrounding potential retaliation against Max Domi following his controversial hit on Aleksander Barkov.

Domi's Hit: What Comes Next?

Regarding the possibility of the Florida Panthers taking action against Domi, Berube remained unfazed, stating, "What are they going to do? They can go after him, but Max has been around." He emphasized that high emotions are a part of the game but reassured that Domi would be just fine. "He just needs to play his game and not worry about any potential reactions from the opposition."

Disciplinary Concerns

Berube expressed a clear desire for improved discipline from his team, especially after a heavy penalty outing in the last game. "We went to the box five times, which is excessive," he noted. The coach highlighted that too many penalties hinder a team's rhythm and momentum, stressing the need for players to control their sticks better to avoid unnecessary infractions.

Veterans Stepping Up

As the series progresses, Berube reflected on the importance of veteran players with playoff experience. "For sure, experience is a valuable asset. They’ve been in these situations before and are critical voices in the locker room, guiding the younger players through the challenges of playoff hockey."

Analyzing the Panthers' Evolution

Berube observed a notable shift in the Panthers' gameplay over the series. "They've adopted a heavier forecheck, making it more difficult for us to maneuver. They are tighter on the puck, which has definitely changed since the earlier games in the series." He acknowledged the need for his team to adapt their offensive strategy to generate more shots on goal.

Critical Adjustments for Game 5

As they gear up for Game 5, Berube emphasized the importance of getting shots on net more efficiently. "We have to deliver the puck quicker and make better decisions under pressure. We missed the net 20 times last game, which is something we need to fix." He believes refining their execution will lead to increased opportunities to score.

With playoff tensions rising and stakes high, the upcoming game is sure to be a thrilling clash, as both teams adjust and strategize following the heated encounters.