Auston Matthews is currently facing significant struggles on the ice, raising concerns for the Toronto Maple Leafs as they prepare for their playoff push. The star forward, who had a remarkable season last year scoring 69 goals, is experiencing uncharacteristic difficulty finding the back of the net. With just three goals over his last 16 games, questions surrounding his performance and health have become pressing as the postseason approaches.
Head coach Craig Berube shuffled the team's line combinations before the Maple Leafs’ game against the Ottawa Senators on March 15, 2025, signaling urgency to reinvigorate both Matthews and the team. Having previously eclipsed the 100-point mark for two consecutive seasons, Matthews' current trend is alarming, especially as he risks not hitting the 30-goal milestone this season.
"It weighs on everybody. A player like Matthews wants to help the team by putting the puck in the net...he's doing everything else right," Berube expressed during Saturday’s media availability, reflecting on the burdens of expectations held by the former MVP. Despite the slump, Matthews has contributed with 15 assists during the same stretch.
On the eve of the game against the Senators, Matthews' absence from practice fueled speculation about potential injuries, echoing the concerns shared by fans and analysts alike. TSN host Bryan Hayes made headlines recently when he stated, "He needs to step it up or sit out and recover," emphasizing the importance of Matthews returning to form if the Leafs hope to go deep in the playoffs.
The absence from practice, coupled with Berube’s insistence about his readiness to face Ottawa sparked questions about Matthews' underlying health. Historically, injuries have the propensity to linger, particularly when players push themselves through the pain. "We're also nearing the point of the season where injury information is concealed by teams, which should not be ignored," observed analysts, hinting at the strategic silence surrounding player conditions.
Matthews has faced injuries all season—yet rumors of another nagging problem have emerged as theories abound about his sudden drop off. Compounding this dilemma is the looming threat of playoff matchups against formidable opponents such as the Tampa Bay Lightning, who have continued their back-to-back championship run.
The situation hinges on more than just statistics; it's about momentum and morale as Matthews tries to navigate himself back to the scoring prominence seen just last season. The Toronto Maple Leafs, with ambitions to compete for the Stanley Cup, require their captain to be firing on all cylinders, as defensive strategies and conservative roles will not suffice when facing elite teams in high-stakes games.
"It's just, it's not going in as much this year. But his overall game for me, I go off last game, he did a great job defensively going up against (Aleksander) Barkov, who's one of the best in the league," Berube pointed out, reaffirming the importance of Matthews' contributions beyond mere goal scoring. But fans are left wondering if such reliance on his defensive play is indicative of diminishing offensive output.
Matthews' scoring record against Ottawa may suggest the game serves as the perfect opportunity for awakening. Historically, he has scored 24 goals and amassed 47 points over his 34 career games against the Senators. With the stakes high and the pressure mounting, encouragement is palpable as supporters hope tonight’s clash could reignite their captain’s competitive spirit.
The forthcoming weeks will be scrupulous for Matthews; facing continued questions about his effectiveness as well as scrutiny over his commitment to the team’s success. Notably, he currently sits with 23 goals just 65 games deep, compared to the 55 he had at this time last season—a worrisome gap for post-season ambitions.
With these factors aside, the Maple Leafs must focus on the strategy moving forward. Coach Berube has signaled shifts, aiming for adaptability which hopes to stabilize performance at this pivotal level of competition. If Matthews can replicate or even come close to his previous form, it might steer the team toward victory.
Concerns are mounting, but twin elements of patience and urgency must coexist as Matthews evolves his game transitionally. Yes, the return to top form this season may be gradually pieced together through combinations of practice strategies and health management; the light must be shone on his approach as the team dynamics prepare for the playoffs.
Success this postseason hinges upon collective resilience and Matthews breaking out of this disappointing rut. Should he step up and reclaim his scoring potency, it could prove decisive for the Toronto Maple Leafs’ pursuit of overcoming past playoff disappointments.