Yahoo Sports 'We Need That From Our Leader': Auston Matthews Delivers In Clutch Moment for the Maple Leafs Against Devils
Is Auston Matthews back? It sure seems that way.
The Toronto Maple Leafs star forward scored twice to help the club snap a three-game losing streak with a 4-3 overtime victory against the New Jersey Devils on Thursday.
It's not just that he has scored some goals—the star player did that earlier in the season—but it's the way he's scoring them.
Jan 16, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs forward Auston Matthews (34) pursues the play against the New Jersey Devils in the first period at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images
Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images
View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article
With Toronto down 3-2 in the third period, the Leafs seemed like they may be destined to lose their fourth consecutive game, but Matthews took the game on his back and fired a wrist shot past Devils goaltender Jacob Markstrom that only premium goal-scorers can make.
Matthews' celebration of the goal told the story. In his previous seasons where he led the league in goals, those types of plays were routine for Matthews. And while he had scored some goals at times, it's hard to argue he has scored any prettier this season than that one.
"He led the way," Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube said of Matthews." I thought that he was dialed in. He was working, shooting, attacking, doing a lot of good things, we need that from our leader."
It's the game-breaking ability from Matthews that really has been missing. While the Maple Leafs have been focused on being a better defensive team. And while they have done that this season, it has come at the expense of some offense.
Not having Matthews available for two different stretches due to a lingering upper-body injury didn't help Toronto's cause.
Auston Matthews has scored six goals in seven games since he returned from injury.
— Jonas Siegel (@jonassiegel) January 17, 2025
Matthews has six goals in seven games since returning from his second stint on the injured reserve. Known for his lethal shot, impressive puck-handling skills and hockey IQ, Matthews has been a dominant force in the NHL since his debut in 2016. However, the 2024-25 season has seen a dip in his performance, raising some concern.
Several factors have led to Matthews's struggles this season.
Recurring Injury: Matthews has been battling an undisclosed upper-body injury that has caused him to miss several games and hampered his performance. This injury has clearly affected his ability to generate scoring chances and finish plays effectively.
Changes in Linemates: The Maple Leafs have undergone some lineup changes this season, with Matthews playing alongside different linemates at times. This lack of consistency may have disrupted the chemistry and synergy he had developed with his previous linemates, impacting his overall offensive production.
New Coaching System: The Maple Leafs have a new head coach this season, Craig Berube, who has implemented a different system with less emphasis on puck possession and rush chances. This change in playing style may have limited Matthews' opportunities to utilize his offensive strengths and score goals. Interestingly, the Maple Leafs have shown improvements in their defensive performance this season under their new coach. This suggests that the new system, while potentially limiting Matthews' offensive freedom, might be benefiting the team's overall defensive structure.
But if January is any indication, it looks like Matthews is back. Now he just needs to stay healthy.
Stay updated with the most interesting Maple Leafs stories, analysis, breaking news and more! Tap the star to add us to your favorites on Google News to never miss a story.
