Craig Berube Delivers Key Message to Slumping Auston Matthews

It's been a rough playoffs for Auston Matthews, at least when it comes to scoring. With only two goals in 10 games, he's showing a side we've never seen before with concerns about injuries as well as potential regression.

There's only a few games left to figure it out, so it's important that he gets on the scoresheet again soon, and Toronto is going to need him to to start putting the puck in the net if they want to succeed past Round Two.

Craig Berube can only do so much, and while he's given his captain way more defensive opportunities, he might want to change things up and give him more O-Zone time.

But ahead of Game 5, the bench boss has a message for the Maple Leafs star forward, and it's one that hopefully will spark his scoring touch:

Believe me, the fans are feeling all the frustration right now, with many pointing out that he's meant to put the puck in the net first and foremost.

To be fair to Matthews, he did miss 15 games due to injury plus is being given a bigger defensive role from Craig Berube.

But for someone who only a year ago had a historic season, it's curious as to what is causing him issues.

There's no clear injury to speak of, and perhaps there's a mental aspect to things. Matthews has often shown hesitation where he normally wouldn't, and seems to be overthinking his shots at times.

It's evident too considering he's missed double the shots he's taken, and while it would be excusable if he was hitting the post like earlier this season, he's just flat out missing.

At least the team can take solace in the fact that his defensive game has really helped keep the team steady at times. Matthews has 13 blocks, 26 hits and is outpacing his giveaways; he's been a better overall player but lacks that scoring punch.

He will tie his career high in playoff games played on Wednesday, and will be only the third season in his career he didn't hit three or more goals; and he's only played 65 games.

Regular season goals? 401. Playoff goals? 25.

This was his worst season statistically by goal scoring standards, and it comes at the worst possible time; where he's had the most success since being drafted.

Observing things, Matthews is looking like a shell of his former self, and his reputation for being unable to pull through when it matters is only going to grow with each scoreless game.

Just be thankful Toronto has other pieces able to contribute at least some scoring punch to the lineup.