The departure of Mitch Marner leaves a critical question about Auston Matthews‘ role with the Toronto Maple Leafs, especially as the team reshapes its lineup. Historically, Matthews has demonstrated strong offensive production during 5-on-5 play regardless of his linemates, often maintaining or even increasing his goal totals when separated from Marner. As new players such as Matthew Knies, Max Domi, and Matias Maccelli rotate alongside Matthews on the wings, the expectation is that Matthews will continue to be a dominant presence at even strength.
Challenges Facing the Power Play Without Marner
Marner’s absence is more noticeable during power-play situations, where Matthews’ offensive output has declined. Data show the Maple Leafs’ power play has generated nearly 30% less offense without Marner setting up opportunities. While sample size may affect these numbers, the chemistry between Matthews and Marner was a significant factor in the team’s man advantage success. Moving forward, more responsibility falls on defenseman Morgan Rielly and a forward unit that must rapidly develop new coordination to restore effectiveness.
Need for the Supporting Cast to Advance the Team
The Maple Leafs have leveraged Marner’s departure to free up salary cap space, which allowed them to strengthen depth by adding Matias Maccelli, Nicolas Roy, and extending Matthew Knies’ contract. Despite these moves, the players supporting Matthews will need to consistently deliver, especially in critical game moments. Head coach Craig Berube is likely to continue adjusting line combinations as the team tests its chemistry. The team still holds approximately $3 million in cap space, although restricted free agent Nick Robertson has yet to sign, leaving some uncertainty in the lineup.
What the 2025-26 Season Means for Matthews and Toronto
Auston Matthews remains the team’s driving force and one of the world’s elite players. The upcoming season will be a significant test of his leadership ability both on and off the ice. Without Mitch Marner, Matthews must not only maintain statistical production but also elevate the team’s emotional and tactical resilience through the playoffs. Should the power play continue to struggle or if the top line does not find consistent success, pressure on Matthews and the Maple Leafs could intensify rapidly. The focus now extends beyond individual performances to delivering winning results.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Has Auston Matthews hit 70?
A. Auston Matthews didn’t reach his goal to become one of the few NHL players to score 70 goals in a single season. However, Nikita Kucherov from the Tampa Bay Lightning achieved 100 assists in one season, becoming only the fifth player in NHL history to do so. The Lightning won against the Toronto Maple Leafs with a score of 6-4 on Wednesday night.
Q. Is Auston Matthews friends with Connor McDavid?
A. Over eight years later, Matthews and McDavid have become hockey legends, like their generation’s Ovechkin and Crosby, leading their NHL teams as captains. Both play key roles for Team USA and Team Canada at the 4 Nations Face-Off. They are friends, teammates, and competitors.
Q. Did Auston Matthews get 70?
A. TAMPA, Fla. — Auston Matthews failed to be the ninth player in NHL history to score 70 goals in one season. However, Nikita Kucherov from Tampa Bay achieved a milestone, becoming the fifth player to get 100 assists in a season. The Lightning defeated the Toronto Maple Leafs 6-4 on Wednesday night.
Q. Who is Auston Matthews’ favorite player?
A. As a child, Matthews looked up to Kobe Bryant as his favorite athlete. His favorite sports movie was The Mighty Ducks.
He admires Jonathan Toews and Anže Kopitar because they excel at both offense and defense. People often compare his playing style to theirs.