Craig Berube Urges Leafs Forward To Find Extra Gear Ahead of Playoffs

With the Stanley Cup Playoffs just over a week away, things are slowly falling into place and we are getting a better idea of who the Toronto Maple Leafs will face in the first round.

Ottawa and Florida are the most likely candidates, and while Toronto is in for a tough slate against both teams, they would like to opt for a Battle of Ontario if it really boiled down to it.

That means that everyone will need to play not only to their best ability but often times beyond it, and find that extra gear that turns their game from good to great.

One forward in particular that needs to find that is Calle Jarnkrok. After missing a majority of the season with an injury and recovering from surgery he's come back and while serviceable, hasn't added that game changing defense or extra offense the team needs.

Which is why Craig Berube is trying to spark the forward and relented that while he has enjoyed the production thus far; he needs to pick it up for the playoffs:

He's skated in 15 games so far and only has five points in that span. While not terrible, he still looks a step or two behind everyone else and while the game will eventually come, it can't come too late either.

Jarnkrok has added physicality and some shot blocking in his return (8 blocks, 13 hits), but his defensive possession metrics have slipped and he's only one two of nine face-offs which are normally a highlight of his skillset.

Granted, he's been swapped in and out and all around the lineup since his return and isn't found a true footing, though has played a lot with John Tavares and William Nylander. He's a decent addition to that line but it might be best suited for someone more offensive like Bobby McMann.

All fans can hope for is that Jarnkrok starts to find his groove soon, as he is going to be a difference maker for the first round if he gets that extra gear.

But if not, then the Maple Leafs playoff hopes will stall and eventually fizzle out much like always.