In the middle of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews is under heavy scrutiny.
It’s not just for his quiet performance, but for a decision many now view as a major misstep by the organization.
Auston Matthews’ Captaincy Questioned as Maple Leafs Struggle
According to NHL insider Howard Berger, the Maple Leafs’ front office allegedly stripped John Tavares of his captaincy and handed it to Matthews, reportedly to boost jersey sales, not because of playoff leadership. The decision is now being labeled by him as one of the most “absurd and comical” in modern Leafs history.
Critics argue that the move to replace Tavares with Matthews had little to do with on-ice merit. Tavares, a local player who dreamed of leading the Leafs, has long been seen as a steady, dependable figure. By contrast, Matthews’ playoff performances have been consistently underwhelming.
Matthews has just two goals in 10 playoff games this season, a pace far from what’s expected of the league’s highest-paid player. His disappearing act in crucial moments has raised serious doubts about whether he’s suited to lead the Maple Leafs, particularly during the high-pressure intensity of playoff hockey.
Adding fuel to the fire, Matthews has failed to score in all nine of his career playoff matchups against the Florida Panthers. NHL insider Steven Ellis noted on a podcast that Matthews leads the league in missed shots this postseason. Despite having one of the highest shot volumes, his accuracy and scoring instincts seem to have taken a hit.
The team’s front office, especially Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE), has been accused of prioritizing merchandise sales over team chemistry. Berger even suggested the captaincy change was a marketing move, aimed at selling more Matthews jerseys rather than rewarding leadership or playoff grit.
Matthews’ Performance Under the Microscope
While Matthews has contributed with assists, eight in total, his lack of goals is becoming a bigger problem for Toronto as the series tightens. Analysts like JD Bunkis and Don Cherry have both suggested Matthews may be playing through an injury, potentially linked to a wrist issue from earlier this season.
Even with that possibility, expectations remain high. He’s not on the ice to be a role player. As Bunkis put it, “Matthews isn’t paid to be a defensive player… he’s Auston Matthews.”
Despite his struggles, some teammates have stepped up. John Tavares scored twice in Game 3, Matthew Knies opened the scoring in record time, and Mitch Marner has been dishing out assists. But without Matthews finding the back of the net, the Maple Leafs’ offense lacks its main weapon.
Off the ice, speculation continues. Some insiders wonder if Matthews’ wrist injury, initially said to have sidelined him for 15 games earlier in the season, is still limiting him. Others point to a hand injury from a blocked shot against the Ottawa Senators.
Still, hope lingers. One big night from Matthews could shift the narrative, restore faith in the captaincy, and breathe life back into the Maple Leafs’ Stanley Cup hopes. But for now, the scrutiny continues.