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
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.
- •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.
- 10:38 AMYahoo Sports — Maple Leafs’ Auston Matthews is ‘most important Toronto athlete’ over Blue Jays’ Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
"Carlo Colaiacovo explains why Auston Matthews matters more to Toronto than Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
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