Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews has shared new details about his recent injury and his underwhelming production this season.
There were plenty of questions surrounding the health of Auston Matthews throughout the off-season, training camp and beginning of the season. Every outgoing message from the 28-year-old affirmed that he felt "fine" or "good", but the information was difficult to trust, given the lack of transparency last season.
Coming off of an injury-filled 2024-25 season, the hope was the Leafs captain would regain his 2023-24 form, or at least close to it, when he netted 69 goals.
"Certainly, the first couple sessions back on the ice (following the injury) it didn't feel amazing. I think even the last couple games, I feel like I've got good legs and I'm generating some good opportunities," Matthews added. "I feel good about my game."
Speaking with The Athletic on Thursday, the Arizona native confirmed that his recent play can be attributed to working with the Leafs' development staff on being more quick and agile.
He admitted, however, that he still isn't where he wants to be in terms of his production.
"I think I'm getting there. I'd certainly like to do more and certainly would like to get to another level. But I think it's turning in the right direction. In the end, I want to produce, I want to score and do all those things. But that doesn't matter if we're not winning. You're still not leaving the rink happy. I feel like I'm trending in the right direction and continue to take those steps."
Matthews has five points in his last four games since returning from injury, but it is how engaged he is on both sides of the puck that has caught everyone's attention.
As the Leafs return home to host the Montreal Canadiens, Matthews will look to continue his recent run of dominance and help extend their win streak to four games.