Auston Matthews Disrespected in Newly Released NHL Media Ranking

Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews appears poised for a major bounce-back season -- and he has extra motivation after being placed far lower than expected on the NHL Network's Top 50 Players Right Now list.

Last year, Matthews battled through lingering injuries that forced him to miss time and prevented him from being at full strength. Even so, he still managed to put up impressive numbers amassing 33 goals and 78 points in 67 regular-season games, along with 11 points in 13 playoff appearances.

For most players, that would be considered an excellent campaign, but for Matthews, it was viewed as a down season.

That perception led to what many see as blatant disrespect. Matthews was ranked just 15th overall, far below where a two-time 60-goal scorer and generational talent would be expected to land.

As per NHL Media on X:

Matthews' placement was just ahead of Mitch Marner (18th) and William Nylander (19th). While both are elite players in their own right, Matthews has consistently proven himself to be one of the game's most dominant scorers, and his resume speaks for itself.

Head coach Craig Berube has already highlighted Matthews' progress heading into the year, noting that not only is his captain fully healthy, but he also looks physically stronger and sharper than in previous seasons.

That combination makes the potential for a rebound season extremely high. It's hard to bet against a player who once scored 69 goals in a season just a few years ago, and has already established himself as the most dangerous goal scorer of his generation.

With his health restored and a chip on his shoulder, Matthews seems determined to remind the league that he is still one of the NHL's absolute best. For Leafs fans, that could mean fireworks right from opening night.