Auston Matthews has long been recognized as one of the NHL's premier goal-scorers, boasting a lethal shot and an uncanny ability to find the back of the net. However, recent seasons have seen an evolution in his game, with the Toronto Maple Leafs captain increasingly showcasing his playmaking abilities and vision on the ice. This development has led to a shift in perception, with many now viewing Matthews not just as a scorer, but as a dual-threat offensive force capable of both burying the puck and setting up his linemates.
In the 2024-2025 season, Matthews recorded 45 assists in 67 games, a testament to his growing role as a playmaker. This increase in assist totals reflects a conscious effort on Matthews' part to become a more complete offensive player, utilizing his hockey IQ and puck-handling skills to create scoring chances for his linemates. This evolution is particularly important given the departure of Mitch Marner, who was known for his playmaking.
The absence of Marner, a long-time linemate and key contributor to the Leafs' offense, has placed added emphasis on Matthews' ability to drive the play and create opportunities for others. While Marner's departure undoubtedly leaves a void in the Leafs' playmaking department, it also presents an opportunity for Matthews to further showcase his own abilities in this area.
Several factors contribute to Matthews' emergence as a "great passer." Firstly, his elite shooting ability forces defenders to respect his shot, which in turn opens up passing lanes to his teammates. Secondly, his improved vision and awareness allow him to identify and exploit defensive weaknesses, delivering accurate and timely passes to create scoring chances. Lastly, his strong puck-handling skills enable him to maintain possession and control of the play, giving him more time and space to make plays.
Looking ahead to the 2025-2026 season, the Maple Leafs will be relying on Matthews to not only maintain his goal-scoring prowess but also to elevate the play of his linemates. Potential linemates such as Matthew Knies and Matias Maccelli will likely benefit from Matthews' playmaking abilities, as he draws attention from defenders and creates space for them to operate. While some believe chemistry is key, others believe that Matthews has earned the credibility to drive the offense.
The development of Auston Matthews into a "great passer" adds another dimension to his already impressive offensive arsenal. As he continues to refine his playmaking skills and build chemistry with his linemates, he is poised to become an even more dominant and impactful player for the Toronto Maple Leafs. His ability to both score and create opportunities for others will be crucial for the team's success in the upcoming season and beyond. While the pressure is on, many believe that Matthews is ready to take on the challenge.
