Maple Leafs head coach Jim Hiller plans new offensive role for Auston Matthews

The Toronto Maple Leafs are adjusting the offensive usage of captain Auston Matthews ahead of the 2026-27 NHL season. Reporter Chris Johnston indicates that head coach Jim Hiller intends to deploy Matthews in situations that better highlight his scoring ability compared to the system used under Craig Berube. The team is looking for a rebound from the center after a 2025-26 campaign cut short by an MCL injury and a season in which the club missed the playoffs. Hiller aims to improve the team power play and increase offensive-zone opportunities for Matthews while maintaining defensive structure. Following the departure of Mitch Marner and the addition of Gavin McKenna, the coaching staff is searching for ways to restore Matthews to his status as a top-tier goal scorer. The organization views these tactical shifts as vital to improving team performance after a last-place finish in the Atlantic Division.

• 3:36 PMYahoo Sports — Maple Leafs could unlock Auston Matthews with HC Jim Hiller’s new approach