Berube won't reveal goalie strategy
New Flyers coach Craig Berube said his first focus will be improving defense.
CRAIG BERUBE would not commit to how he was going to handle his goaltenders. Steve Mason was in net for two of the Flyers games this season, Ray Emery the other. Neither is responsible for the team's 0-3 start.
"I think that will work itself out," Berube said.
The rookie coach's first game is tonight against visiting Florida. Berube, who replaces Peter Laviolette, has promised changes to the way things are done, but he will not have any extended practice days until Oct. 18-23 when the team is off.
"We'll make it work," he said.
He was not willing to say whether he prefers one goaltender to carry the load or split the duties. There is recent evidence to suggest both approaches can be effective.
Even though the Flyers have scored just three goals in three games, Berube said his primary focus will be improving the team defensively. Too many players are freelancing when they don't possess the puck and it is leading to breakdowns all over the ice.
"I want them to play as a team. I want them to play for each other – for their goalie, the defensemen, the forwards. Play together as a team with or without the puck. That's what I want," he said.
Berube played for five teams, including two stops each for the Flyers, Calgary and Washington. His first NHL coach was Mike Keenan. Berube added John Paddock, his former minor league coach, and Ian Laperriere to his staff, while retaining goalie coach Jeff Reese and assistant Joe Mullen. Assistant Kevin McCarthy also was fired.
No matter who is wearing the suits behind the bench, Berube said it's all about the guys wearing the skates.
"They need to understand that they [shouldn't] want to let their teammates down," he said. "Don't let their goalie hang out to dry. Play a team game all the time. Not sometimes. All the time. Do the little things, details. That's how you win hockey games. That's how you become a good team."
- Ed Barkowitz
