BREAKING NEWS: Former St. Louis Blues head coach Craig Berube, now with the Toronto Maple Leafs, sent a bold message to current St. Louis Blues head coach Jim Montgomery, stating that the culture and identity he helped build in St. Louis must not be forgotten or dismantled.
Berube, who led the Blues to their first-ever Stanley Cup title in 2019, made headlines during a media scrum ahead of the Leafs’ upcoming game against St. Louis. When asked about facing his former team, Berube didn’t hold back. “I poured my heart into that organization,” he said. “We built a team based on grit, accountability, and relentless effort. I just hope they remember what made them champions.”
His comments come at a time when the Blues have been under scrutiny for inconsistent play and a perceived shift away from the hard-nosed, physical style that defined their 2019 run. While Montgomery has introduced new systems and philosophies since taking over, some fans and analysts have questioned whether the team has lost part of its identity.
“Jim’s a good coach,” Berube added. “But I think it’s important to stay connected to the roots that brought success. You can evolve, but you can’t abandon the foundation.”
The reaction to Berube’s comments has been mixed. Some view his message as a pointed critique of Montgomery’s direction, while others see it as a passionate defense of the culture he built. Blues forward Brayden Schenn weighed in, saying, “Chief [Berube] brought a winning mindset here. We still carry a lot of that with us, even if the style is a bit different now.”
Montgomery, when asked about Berube’s statement, remained diplomatic. “Craig did a lot of great things for this franchise, no doubt about it,” he said. “We’re building on that foundation in our own way, but we still value the toughness and heart this team has always been known for.”
With both coaches set to face off behind their respective benches, the upcoming matchup between the Leafs and the Blues now carries even more intrigue. It’s more than just a game—it’s a clash of philosophies, legacy, and pride. One thing is certain: Craig Berube still has unfinished business when it comes to the identity of the team he once led to glory.