The Toronto Maple Leafs have revamped their roster with a new starting goaltender, top defenseman, and first-round pick, but their success hinges on a player striving to reclaim his peak form.
It’s been two seasons since Matthews captured his third Rocket Richard Trophy after leading the NHL with 69 goals in 81 games during 2023-24. Since then, he’s accumulated 60 goals in 127 contests, raising questions about whether the 28-year-old captain’s scoring prowess has diminished.
Goal-scoring is often a young man’s game, yet nine of the past 23 Rocket Richard Trophy winners achieved their feats at an age equal to or older than Matthews. Alex Ovechkin alone accounts for six of those honors. The most recent player to score 60 goals at age 28 or older was Mike Bossy in 1985-86.
While another 69-goal season is unlikely—even with the league’s upcoming 84-game schedule—Matthews’ return to elite scoring would be critical if the Maple Leafs aim to transition from contenders to Stanley Cup competitors.
Coach Jim Hiller emphasized the importance, stating, “I have a pretty good relationship over the years. This is for me as excited as he’s been in my time talking to him.”
The foundation for Matthews’ resurgence lies in the Maple Leafs’ significant offseason upgrades. The team selected winger Gavin McKenna with their top draft pick, signed defenseman Darren Raddysh, acquired goalie Sergei Bobrovsky, and rehired Hiller, his former associate coach.
Auston Matthews Declares Toronto ‘Home’ Ahead of 2026–27 Season: Addresses Health, Maple Leafs’ New Room, And Mentoring Gavin McKenna
Here are 10 takeaways from Matthews’ 1-on-1 sitdown with Maple Leafs host Ryan Leslie.
Following a season-ending MCL injury, Matthews feels physically and mentally prepared. “He looks great,” GM John Chayka noted. “But give him credit, he put in the work… to get an extra edge.”
While his 27 goals and 53 points in 60 games marked his lowest career output, Matthews helped Team USA win gold at the 2026 Olympics.
‘He Gives Me Confidence’: Maple Leafs’ Jim Hiller On Sturdy Relationship With Auston Matthews, Hinting At Strong Season
Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Jim Hiller likes what he hears from Auston Matthews and the level of confidence he’s at going into the 2026-27 NHL season.
Mitchell Marner’s departure to Vegas last season disrupted Matthews’ rhythm, but new teammate Jack Roslovic offers familiarity as a former U.S. National Team teammate. Though rookie McKenna may eventually form chemistry with Matthews, the veteran’s future success depends on both his adaptation to Hiller’s system and the organization’s ability to integrate their new pieces effectively.
