Philippe Myers reveals his 'recipe for success' after signing 2-year extension with Toronto Maple Leafs

On Friday, Philippe Myers secured a two-year contract extension with the Toronto Maple Leafs worth $1.7 million. The defenseman has faced challenges in his NHL journey, often moving between the NHL and AHL. After an impressive training camp this season, Myers earned a spot on the Leafs’ 23-man roster.

Philippe Myers' path to consistent NHL play wasn’t easy. Myers only played one game in the first two months of the season. He also had a conditioning stint with the Toronto Marlies during that time. However, he stayed focused and worked hard to improve.

Last season, while with the Syracuse Crunch in the AHL, Philippe Myers got advice that changed his approach. Coaches Joel Bouchard and Dan Jacob told him to keep things simple. They told him to focus on his size, reach and physical play.

"I just kind of came to realize that, for me, when I try to over-complicate things, it doesn't go so well. So keeping it simple is kind of my game," Myers said, via The Hockey News. "Obviously when there's a play to be made, you make it. But you're not trying to look for, to try to do anything too fancy, right? So it's keeping it simple and playing hard is a recipe for success."

This mindset has worked well for him in Toronto. Myers often pairs with Morgan Rielly, who focuses on offense. Myers stays back, playing a steady and reliable defensive role.

Coach Craig Berube appreciates Philippe Myers' approach.

“We know when he gets the puck, he’ll make the simple play,” Berube said. “He’s been good defensively and boxing out around the net.”

Myers has played 11 games this season, averaging 17 minutes of ice time per game. His career totals include 38 points in 169 NHL games.

Philippe Myers was part of the Leafs lineup in 2-1 win over the Islanders

On Thursday, the Toronto Maple Leafs defeated the New York Islanders 2–1 at UBS Arena. Bobby McMann scored both goals for Toronto, including the game-winner late in the third period. Philippe Myers recorded one shot on goal in 17:43 minutes of ice time and a plus-minus of zero.

McMann gave the Maple Leafs a 1–0 lead in the second period. The Islanders tied it 1–1 later in the second when Scott Mayfield finished a cross-ice pass from Mathew Barzal.

McMann scored the winning goal on the power play with 2:59 left in the third period. Joseph Woll made 32 saves for Toronto, including key stops on breakaways by Pierre Engvall and Bo Horvat.