Auston Matthews faces pressure to increase goal output for Maple Leafs
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 10, 2026, 5:20 AM
Last updated Sep 10, 2026
Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews enters the 2026-27 NHL season under scrutiny regarding his future contract status. Former NHL player Jay Rosehill noted that Matthews' performance over the last two seasons, which featured an average of 30 goals, falls short of the expectations required for his next potential deal. Matthews, currently in the third year of a four-year, $53 million contract, saw his 2025-26 season limited by a Grade 3 medial collateral ligament tear and a quadriceps contusion. He recorded 27 goals and 26 assists across 60 games during that campaign. The organization and supporters look to the team captain for higher scoring totals as the franchise prepares for the upcoming preseason. Matthews holds the status of a former No. 1 overall pick and remains a central figure for the Toronto roster.
- •Auston Matthews is entering the third year of a four-year contract.
- •Matthews recorded 27 goals and 26 assists in 60 games last season.
- •A Grade 3 medial collateral ligament tear interrupted the 2025-26 season for the captain.
- •The 2026-27 NHL season marks a pivotal period for future contract discussions.
- 5:20 AMYahoo Sports — Maple Leafs Handed Harsh Auston Matthews Truth Before NHL Season
"The Toronto Maple Leafs have been handed a harsh truth about Auston Matthews and his contractual situation ahead of the start of the preseason and the 2026-27 NHL season.Matthews’ last two seasons with the Toronto franchise have not been his best in terms of goals scored. Even so, there is no question about the importance […] The post Maple Leafs Handed Harsh Auston Matthews Truth Before NHL Season appeared first on HEAVY.
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