Maple Leafs coach Craig Berube has issued a challenge to two forwards struggling to make a significant impact this season: Max Domi and Nick Robertson.
Domi, who may return against the Devils on Tuesday after missing eight games with a lower-body injury, has endured a rough patch, going 13 games without a point and recording only six assists in 19 games. Meanwhile, Robertson, despite receiving his highest-ever NHL ice time, has managed just two goals in 23 games and was a healthy scratch in Saturday’s matchup against Pittsburgh.
Berube emphasized the need for both players to embrace a more aggressive, gritty style. “Max needs to stop being so selfless, shoot more, and get to those greasy areas around the net,” Berube said after Monday’s practice in Newark. “The same goes for Robertson. They both need to get inside and score those tough goals. Secondary scoring is vital for us.”
Domi, addressing the media for the first time in over a month, remained optimistic, downplaying concerns about his scoring drought. “If the team wins, that’s all that matters,” he said. Domi, who signed a four-year, $15-million contract extension in July, acknowledged the decision to rest and recover was for the greater good, adding that he now feels ready to contribute.
Berube’s vision for grittier goals aligns with his preference for power-forward play, as seen in the efforts of Matthew Knies and Bobby McMann. He cited Mitch Marner’s recent scrappy goal against Pittsburgh as an example for Domi and Robertson to emulate.
“Greasy goals win games,” Berube asserted. “Fancy goals won’t cut it as the season tightens and playoffs approach. We need two players at the net consistently.”
Robertson, determined to break his scoring slump, admitted that luck and execution have been elusive. “I’ve been working hard. Now it’s about turning that into results,” he said.
As the Leafs aim to improve their 5-on-5 scoring, Berube remains hopeful that Domi and Robertson can rise to the occasion and deliver the kind of gritty performances needed to push the team forward.
