Auston Matthews leading by example, showing up when it matters most
It is no secret, Auston Matthews did not play his best hockey in last year's playoffs. In the seven games against the Montreal Canadiens, he recorded five points (1 goal & 4 assists). Perhaps more notably, he was a non-factor once the Leafs took a three-to-one series lead. Matthews was scoreless when the Leafs lost games five and six, then had one assist late in game 7 when the game was already out of reach.
It left many wondering if Matthews could perform when it mattered most. Fast forward one year, after a Hart Trophy caliber regular season, Matthews is doing his part to put those doubts to rest. In just two games, Matthews has posted five points (2 goals & 3 assists), already matching his playoff point total from last season.
But it hasn't just been the offense with Matthews. He has shown a willingness to get involved physically, tallying five hits through games one and two, including this hit on Lightning defensemen Ryan McDonagh last night during a forecheck which led to the Leafs first goal.
And while the physicality has been impactful, so has his impressive defensive play. He garnered a standing ovation from the fans at Scotiabank Arena early in the second period of last nights game when he stripped Lightning star forward Steven Stamkos on the back check during an odd man rush.
With the series even at one game a piece heading south to Tampa Bay, Leaf fans should be encouraged that Auston Matthews has made his presence felt in this series.
| POLL | ||
MAI 5 | 477 ANSWERS Auston Matthews leading by example, showing up when it matters most Who has been the best Leaf forward in the series? | ||
| Mitch Marner | 260 | 54.5 % |
| Auston Matthews | 150 | 31.4 % |
| William Nylander | 32 | 6.7 % |
| Other | 35 | 7.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
