Anthony Stolarz reveals Craig Berube's "not so nice" pep talk triggered Leafs' comeback from 3-0 deficit vs. Penguins

Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Anthony Stolarz revealed that coach Craig Berube’s fiery intermission speech ignited the team’s stunning comeback victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins on Monday.

The Penguins dominated early and carried a 3-0 lead into the second intermission, leaving frustration etched on Berube’s face and the Scotiabank Arena crowd deflated.

But the Maple Leafs emerged rejuvenated in the third period, scoring four unanswered goals to complete one of the most remarkable comebacks in franchise history and secure a 4-3 win in regulation.

Anthony Stolarz described Berube’s message as not so nice, yet exactly what the team needed:

"Not so nice. Yea, Chief did the talking and really lit a fire under us. Kudos to the guys for the way we were able to respond. That’s how we have to play," he said post-game.

Stolarz added:

"We’re a talented team, and when we work hard, continue to play his brand of hockey, get in front of the other team’s goalie, and battle on the forecheck, good things happen. That second period is a prime example of that.”

The Maple Leafs extended their winning streak to two games, improving their record to 7-5-1. They are currently third in the Atlantic Division and will play the Utah Mammoth next on Wednesday.

Anthony Stolarz's Maple Leafs mount insane comeback to stun Pittsburgh Penguins

On Monday, the Maple Leafs mounted an insane comeback from a 3-0 deficit to defeat the Pittsburgh Penguins 4-3 at Scotiabank Arena.

Erik Karlsson opened the scoring for the Penguins, putting them ahead 1-0 at 13:08 of the first period. Ben Kindel extended the Penguins’ lead to 2-0 at 17:57. In the second period, Kindel scored his second of the night to make it 3-0 with a power-play goal at 11:50.

The Leafs rallied in the third, as Auston Matthews cut the deficit to 3-1 at 3:31. Just over a minute later, William Nylander made it 3-2. He doubled his tally for the night, tying the game 3-3 at 6:55. Bobby McMann scored the winner for the Leafs at 13:43.

William Nylander notched three points, while Auston Matthews and Morgan Rielly contributed two points apiece in the matchup. Meanwhile, Anthony Stolarz made 33 saves and posted a .917 save percentage between the sticks.

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Edited by Abhishek Dilta