Former player comments on Sheldon Keefe, shutting down a common narrative

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Liam
September 10, 2023 (9:51 PM)

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After spending his entire NHL career under Maple Leafs organization, Pierre Engvall was traded to the New York Islanders at last season's trade deadline. Now removed from the media microscope in Toronto, Pierre Engvall spoke earnestly in an interview with the 32 Thoughts Podcast, specifically about his thoughts on head coach Sheldon Keefe.

The 6'5 forward was heavily criticized by many fans during his time in Toronto, but also appreciated by others as an effective depth player. Speaking with the 32 Thoughts Podcast, Engvall said that the pressure of t playing in Toronto never phased him, and his confidence came in part due to coach Sheldon Keefe.

When Elliotte Friedman asked directly about a comment from another Leaf player who said conversations between himself and Keefe could get heated, Engvall denied any speculation of ill-will, and mentioned Keefe's tough love approach.

I felt like he believed in me but also he could tell me I needed to play better. *Laughs*. We had a pretty good relationship, I think. But he told me when I didn't play good. He was honest about that.

It's always been entertaining to see former Leafs speak honestly about the team once they've left the constant scrutiny of the Toronto media. In this case, a dividing player giving Keefe a vote of confidence is a welcome sight, instead to the expected criticisms when a player leaves a team without much success.