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League: NHLSport: HockeyCountry: United StatesCategory: Scores & Results

Auston Matthews viewed as most important athlete in Toronto ahead of Vladdy

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 19, 2026, 10:38 AM

Last updated Aug 19, 2026

Auston Matthews viewed as most important athlete in Toronto ahead of Vladdy
Summary

Carlo Colaiacovo described Auston Matthews as the ‘most important Toronto athlete,’ surpassing Blue Jays star Vladimir Guerrero Jr. on a recent First Up broadcast. Colaiacovo cited Matthews' uncertain future with the Maple Leafs compared to Guerrero's 14-year, $500 million commitment to the Blue Jays. He emphasized the significant pressure on Matthews to lead Toronto to success following a disappointing season where the Maple Leafs missed the playoffs. Matthews' performance will be pivotal for the team's chances as he approaches the 2026-27 season after recovering from a serious knee injury.

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Yahoo Sports
Status Watch
  • •Colaiacovo calls Matthews the most important Toronto athlete.
  • •Guerrero signed a long-term deal, creating different expectations.
  • •Matthews enters season after missing playoffs and recovering from injury.
  • •The Maple Leafs are under pressure for a successful turnaround in 2026.
  • •Future commitments from Matthews could affect team strategies.
Latest Updates
  • 10:38 AMYahoo Sports — Maple Leafs’ Auston Matthews is ‘most important Toronto athlete’ over Blue Jays’ Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
What they're saying
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Carlo Colaiacovo explains why Auston Matthews matters more to Toronto than Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

Related Teams & Leagues
Anaheim DucksToronto Maple LeafsNHLHockey

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