Auston Matthews, the Toronto Maple Leafs’ star forward and one of the most electrifying players in the NHL, recently revealed that he was dealing with a hand injury during the 2020-21 season. Despite the injury, Matthews continued to play at a high level and even scored an impressive 41 goals in just 52 games. Now that the season has ended, Matthews is finally able to address the injury and reflects on how it affected his game. In this article, we’ll explore Matthews’ injury and how he feels about his recovery.
Auston Matthews, one of the NHL’s most talented players, has been plagued with injuries this season, leading to a decline in his performance. However, he recently revealed in an interview that his hand injury has been improving, and this has positively impacted his shooting ability. Matthews had surgery on his left wrist before last season, and it is unclear when the hand injury emerged or how long it has been affecting him. However, he has now regained his fluidity and is shooting the puck more aggressively and accurately, as was evident in the recent game against McDavid’s Edmonton Oilers. Matthews is now averaging almost six shots on nine attempts per game, which is similar to last season’s performance when he led the NHL with 348 shots on goal. It’s phenomenal that Matthews is on track to score 40 goals this season despite playing through his injuries, achieving his seventh straight 30-goal season.
Matthews credited his return to form to his footwork, which is another underrated aspect of his game. Pre-practice skill development sessions with Darryl Belfry also helped. Matthews worked on “getting repetitions and shots and putting himself in those kinds of situations and movements that you’d be in during a game and in situations and trying to work through different stuff.” Injuries can significantly impact a player’s performance, and it’s remarkable that Matthews has been able to maintain his level of excellence despite this season’s challenges. As the playoffs approach, the Leafs will need Matthews in top form if they have any chance of defeating Tampa and making a legitimate run for the Stanley Cup.
In conclusion, Auston Matthews’ determination and grit may have been the reason behind the recent dip in his gameplay. However, the revelation of the hand injury explains why Matthews was not able to perform at his highest level. Nevertheless, with proper rest and rehabilitation, the star forward is confident in his comeback, and fans can expect nothing but the best on the ice. As we wait to see Matthews’ revitalized performance, one thing remains clear: he is without a doubt an essential part of the Toronto Maple Leafs’ success, and we can’t wait to see what he’ll bring to the game.
