Latest Craig Berube comment speaks the truth about the Toronto Maple Leafs

The Toronto Maple Leafs are not playing up to their potential. After a second straight embarrassing 5-1 loss to the St. Louis Blues, this team needs a wake-up call, and Craig Berube is the perfect head coach to deliver such a message now that we're still early in the new regular season. This team needs to be set straight since they're not playing to the standard based on all their talent.

From a lack of focus on defense to not capitalizing on power play opportunities, the Maple Leafs need to tighten up on all the little things of playing successful hockey. They have what it takes to enjoy a very successful season but lack the sense of urgency to put it all together. Thankfully, Berube's latest comments should hopefully light a fire under this team.

In an article by Luke Fox of Sportsnet, Berube didn't hold back from his thoughts on what was wrong with his team: "Our whole team is getting a little cute. We just gotta play direct," Berube said. "We don't need that kinda stuff."

Craig Berube calls out Toronto Maple Leafs for playing "a little cute"

Berube hit the nail right on the head since it's true. Just looking at how the Maple Leafs are playing defense and not doing much of anything in power play situations so far this season shows a lack of focus and not sticking to the task at hand. They must take advantage of these opportunities as much as possible and let their play on the ice show their team's identity.

As of right now, the Maple Leafs lack any identity. Yes, it all starts with accountability, and hopefully, the players do some self-reflection and get back on track. They have a bounce-back game on Saturday against the Boston Bruins and need to come out of the gates swinging to show they can play efficient hockey and leave this game victorious.

Thankfully, there is still a ton of hockey left to be played, and there is no need to hit the panic button. While the Maple Leafs have their work cut out for them, there is confidence that the leaders in the locker room will round up the troops to nip these defensive and power play issues in the bud. It's crucial to get everyone bought in to bounce back immediately.

It all starts Saturday, and Berube's comments should hit a nerve in every player in the Maple Leafs' locker room to stop playing a little cute and start playing more aggressively focused. If they can set the tone this weekend after these early-season mishaps, there's no telling what this team can do as the season progresses.