"Under Berube, Matthews is expected to drive play in all three zones, win board battles, and take on heavier matchups against opposing top lines. While he is still Toronto's most dangerous offensive weapon, Berube has emphasized responsibility without the puck, turning Matthews into a more complete two-way presence. The coaching staff has praised his ability to anticipate plays, commit to backchecking, and support the defence, all while losing some of his elite scoring touch."
"With Sheldon Keefe behind the bench, Auston Matthews thrived offensively, producing two 60-goal seasons, a Hart Trophy, and three Rocket Richard titles. Under Craig Berube, however, Matthews has been asked to play a more physical and defensively responsible style, which has shifted some of his offensive focus. After an injury-affected 2024-25 campaign where he finished with 33 goals, his lowest total since entering the league, Matthews started this season with 9 goals and 5 assists in 17 games before going down again."
Craig Berube has implemented a hard-hitting, physical, defensively focused system that requires Auston Matthews to play a heavier, more responsible role across all three zones. Matthews is expected to drive play, win board battles, take on heavier matchups, anticipate plays, commit to backchecking, and support the defence, expanding his two-way responsibilities while reducing some offensive freedom. Under Sheldon Keefe Matthews produced multiple 60-goal seasons, a Hart Trophy and three Rocket Richards, but an injury-affected 2024-25 season yielded 33 goals. Early 2025-26 usage shows 9 goals and 5 assists in 17 games before another injury. Shots per game fell from nearly five to 3.9 and shot velocity dropped from 95.56 to 86.92 mph.
Read at Editor In Leaf
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]