This forward makes case to stay in the Maple Leafs lineup

"Matias Maccelli suited up for the Toronto Maple Leafs on Saturday for the first time in nine games. With the team searching for a spark, the Leafs inserted Maccelli into the lineup in hopes that a change could generate some offence. Acquired by Brad Treliving in the offseason from the Utah Mammoth, Maccelli's first season in Toronto has been underwhelming so far."

"Entering Saturday's game, Maccelli had struggled to produce, recording four goals and six assists in 23 games. Against the Predators, he was given a real opportunity, skating alongside John Tavares and William Nylander. Maccelli made the most of it, picking up an assist by setting up Tavares for a goal that gave the Leafs a 2-1 lead. Overall, he was one of Toronto's most effective forwards, creating chances and driving play in the offensive zone."

"Maccelli's strong showing will keep him in the lineup for Sunday night's matchup against the Dallas Stars. If he continues to play with confidence and pace, he could begin to earn the trust of head coach Craig Berube, something that has been hard to come by this season. Maccelli's main competition is Max Domi, who has endured a difficult season. Domi has struggled to generate offence and has often been invisible on the ice."

Matias Maccelli returned to the Maple Leafs lineup after nine games and was inserted to spark offence. He struggled early with four goals and six assists in 23 games but skated with John Tavares and William Nylander against the Predators and assisted on Tavares' go-ahead goal. He created chances, drove play in the offensive zone and earned another start against the Dallas Stars. Maccelli competes with Max Domi for a roster spot; Domi has been largely invisible this season. Given consistent minutes in an offensive role, Maccelli could provide the secondary scoring the Leafs need.

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