Matias Maccelli, the Finnish forward recently joining the Toronto Maple Leafs via trade from the club now operating under the rather distinct `Utah Mammoth` designation, has a clear message for the hockey world: his scoring touch hasn`t vanished. He is acutely aware that his performance last season did not reflect his capabilities and is determined to prove his true value in Toronto.
During his initial media availability since the trade, the 24-year-old winger addressed the statistical downturn he experienced. “It wasn`t obviously the best year for myself,” Maccelli conceded, referencing his output of 18 points (8 goals, 10 assists) across 55 games with his former team, where his average ice time hovered around 13 minutes and 44 seconds per contest.
This recent season stood in stark contrast to his previous campaigns. In what was described as his “best NHL season,” he registered an impressive 67 points (17 goals, 40 assists) over a full 82-game schedule, benefiting from a more substantial average ice time of 16 minutes and 14 seconds. His rookie year in 2022-23 also demonstrated significant offensive potential, yielding 49 points (11 goals, 38 assists) in 64 games with 15 minutes and 41 seconds of ice time.
Maccelli drew a direct link between opportunity and production. He articulated that point totals are often intrinsically tied to a player`s ice time and the situations they are deployed in. Despite the recent dip, his belief in his underlying skill set remains unwavering.
“I still know I`m a better player than I was,” he stated confidently. “I`ve got it still in me. Now, I`ve just got to show people that again.”
Targeting Opportunity and Top Talent
Maccelli isn`t arriving in Toronto just to fill a roster spot; he is actively aiming for a more prominent role within the team`s forward group. Specifically, he expressed his hope to make a push for a position in the top six.
In a pragmatic acknowledgment of the offensive firepower residing in Toronto, Maccelli also didn`t shy away from the prospect of playing alongside the team`s undisputed superstar center. He openly shared his desire, stating he “would obviously love an opportunity to play on a line with Auston Matthews.” For any skilled forward, such an assignment is less a matter of preference and more an objective pathway to elevated statistics.
For the Maple Leafs, acquiring Maccelli represents a calculated move to add a player with a proven track record of higher production, albeit one coming off a challenging year. The club is banking on the change of scenery, potentially increased ice time or a more suitable role, and the motivation of a player determined to bounce back, to unlock his offensive capabilities once more.
Matias Maccelli`s arrival adds an element of intrigue to the Leafs` lineup composition heading into the next season. His mission is clear: reclaim his offensive form and establish himself as a valuable contributor in Toronto`s push for success. The opportunity is present; the next step is demonstrating the execution he believes he is still capable of.
