As the Toronto Maple Leafs gear up for their first-round playoff matchup against the Tampa Bay Lightning, superstar Auston Matthews shares insights on his team’s preparations and mindset. The Leafs are looking for redemption in this rematch from the 2022 NHL playoffs, which saw the Lightning eliminate them in a thrilling seven-game series. Matthews emphasizes the importance of focusing on one game at a time and concentrating on individual responsibilities within each match. Matthews playoff preparation
Matthews had another remarkable regular season, scoring 40 goals and notching 45 assists for a total of 85 points in 74 games played. He also made significant strides in his defensive game this season, improving his +/- rating by 11 to a +31.
The Leafs’ high-powered offense was further boosted by Mitchell Marner who led the team in points with 30 goals and 69 assists for a total of 99 points in 80 games played. William Nylander also had a stellar year, accumulating 87 points in 82 games.
Tampa Bay’s offensive prowess was on display as well, with Nikita Kucherov leading the team with 113 points in 82 games and Brayden Point topping the goal-scoring list with 51. This series will undoubtedly be a showcase of exceptional talent and high-scoring action.
As the Leafs enter the series as favorites with -155 odds, Matthews stresses the importance of not getting ahead of themselves and taking each game as it comes. This focused approach will be crucial in overcoming a formidable opponent like the Lightning and advancing further in the quest for the Stanley Cup. Matthews playoff preparation
