Maple Leafs defenseman admits to playing well below his capabilities

There is plenty of blame to go around for the Maple Leafs' struggles so far this season, but one player is shouldering the blame for his own errors, and is adamant that he needs to be better.

Forward Simon Benoit met with reporters on Monday, and was very blunt in his assessment of how he's been on the ice this season. The 27-year-old has two assists and is a minus-2 in 21 games so far this season.

Despite being one of the more heralded Maple Leafs in last year's playoffs for his dogged determination, Simon Benoit says he's very aware that he hasn't been good enough this year. He went as far as to call himself "passive."

It's a moment of accountability that Benoit's teammates should play close attention to.

Benoit isn't exactly the guy you depend on to turn a game around when things get tough, which is all the more reason his teammates should be listening. Despite being a depth guy, Benoit is more than willing to take blame when it's due. It's an appreciable trait, and one that should be used as motivation.

Benoit did add that adversity in the NHL should be character-building, as everyone should be willing to learn from their mistakes and move forward as a stronger team. Hopefully, his teammates paid attention to that statement as well.