Toronto, Jan 2026 — Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube made headlines for an unexpected reason this week — a nasty injury he sustained off the ice. Berube showed up at a team press event with a bruised eye and a large stitched gash across his forehead, the result of what he called a “stupid” gym accident the day before.
The 60‑year‑old, known in his playing days as a tough NHL enforcer, downplayed the incident with humor, insisting the mishap was his fault and that he was fine, even joking that “the other guy looks way worse” when asked about the situation. He chose not to elaborate on the exact details of how it happened.
Berube also revealed that the wounds required close to 50 stitches, more than he recalled receiving from any fight during his lengthy career. Despite the dramatic look, the coach confirmed he would remain behind the Leafs’ bench for upcoming games.
Later reports suggested the cut and bruise came during a routine weight training session when a barbell unexpectedly struck him on the forehead, causing the deep laceration that needed extensive medical attention.
The incident prompted plenty of social‑media commentary and some good‑natured ribbing from fans, but Berube’s focus stayed on hockey — a reminder that even routine workouts can have unforeseen consequences.
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