Maple Leafs forward receives blunt assessment from HC Craig Berube

Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube addressed how forward Matias Maccelli's game has changed throughout the season, acknowledging his improvement.

On Saturday, during his media duties before the Toronto-Los Angeles game, Berube noted that Maccelli has been much better in the second half of the season.

"Well, he's been a lot better," Berube said. "You know, I think he went through a really good stretch not long ago where he was doing some really good things and putting points on the board."

Matias Maccelli "a lot better" in second half but needs to finish strong, Craig Berube says

However, the coach also noted that Maccelli's level has dropped off somewhat recently and called on him to be a point producer in the team's remaining games.

"He's got to get back to that. I think it's dropped off a bit lately, but we need him to be a point producer for us."

Maccelli was one of those players who attracted attention from the press and fans following the departure of winger Mitch Marner to the Vegas Golden Knights last year. Although he did not live up to general expectations, his numbers are decent.

The Finnish forward has recorded 14 goals and 23 assists for 37 points in 65 games played, ranking sixth among Toronto's most productive players this season.

Maccelli is in the third and final year of his $10.28 million deal, carrying an AAV of $3.425 million. His role next season and whether he will remain with the Maple Leafs remain unclear, but his age and potential make him an interesting asset for both Toronto and other franchises.

The recent firing of Brad Treliving as general manager adds further uncertainty to the future of some roster pieces. It is also unclear whether Berube will remain as Toronto's coach next season, leaving everything up in the air until the offseason.