'He's Being The Player We Want Him To Be': How Max Domi Is Dialing Up His Play With Maple Leafs As Playoffs Near

As of late, Domi has been one of Toronto's most productive players, registering eight points in his last 11 games.

Max Domi has dialled up his play with the Maple Leafs' postseason nearing.

The 30-year-old's game, according to Toronto head coach Craig Berube, "has gone to another level," during a time when the team needs it most. He's scored three goals and five assists for eight points in his last 11 games, the fifth-most on the Maple Leafs during that stretch.

On the season, Domi has six goals and 22 assists for 28 points in 59 games.

"He's had some great games. He's playing with a lot of passion. It's been fun to watch," linemate Bobby McMann said on Tuesday. "The Florida game, he was lights out. That's some good hockey there. He's just been keeping it rolling and it's nice to be able to play with him."

Toronto's third line of Domi, McMann, and Nick Robertson has been strong when they've played together. Monday's game against the Calgary Flames, where they combined three goals and four points, was one of their best games as a trio.

Domi, who has played 720 games in his NHL career, got the Maple Leafs started on Monday with a massive goal, for himself and the team. However, with the playoffs quickly approaching, every area of his game has gone up a notch.

"He's way more aggressive. He's being the player we want him to be," Berube said.

"He's in people's faces, he's disrupting things, he's using his speed, and he's a playmaker. He can make plays. The guy can pass the puck. But for me, it's about the skating."

According to NHL Edge, Domi's highest-clocked speed was 37.57 kilometers per hour, which is in the 95th percentile of the entire league. As Berube mentions, Domi is a speedy playmaker, who is not afraid to be aggressive against his opponents.

Everyone can see that during games, but we don't witness the type of teammate Domi is off the ice. That side of him can be just as important as the player he is on the ice.

"I think he's just checking in with guys a lot. Not afraid to joke around all the time, have a good time," McMann said. "Even though he's missing some teeth, he has a great smile. Just keeps the boys light and enjoying being around the rink."

Every game matters in these final 15 games of the regular season. Toronto has another tough test with the Colorado Avalanche on Wednesday, but if the third line — and every other line — can play how they did against Calgary, they'll have success.

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