Why is the NHL trending in Canada today?
The Leafs’ 5‑4 overtime victory over the Nashville Predators, sealed by Auston Matthews’ game‑winner, has put the NHL back in the spotlight. Matthews’ strong start after a injury‑laden stretch is being seen as a sign the team may finally break its playoff drought.
What happened
- 8 Oct, 19:00 UTC
Matthews scored the overtime winner and posted a four‑point night as Toronto beat Nashville 5‑4, reviving hopes for the franchise [1]
- Earlier
Analysts questioned whether Matthews could return to elite form after two seasons of reduced production and injuries [2]
What you need to know
Matthews posted a goal and three assists, including the OT winner.
He appears fully healthy according to the new GM, John Chayka.
Rookie Gavin McKenna recorded his first NHL point and a goal in the same game.
The Leafs are still without a permanent general manager after firing Brad Treliving.
It remains unclear whether the Leafs will extend Matthews’ contract beyond the 2027‑28 season or how the team will build around him long‑term.
Background
Auston Matthews returned from a March 2026 surgery on a grade‑3 MCL tear and quad contusion, and early in the 2026‑27 season delivered a four‑point performance that reminded fans of his 2021‑24 dominance, when he averaged over 56 goals per season and set a team record of 69 goals in 2023‑24 [1].
The past two seasons saw Matthews’ production dip to about 30 goals per year, fueling concerns about his durability after an upper‑body injury treated in Germany in 2024 [1][2].
The Leafs’ recent win also featured rookie forward Gavin McKenna’s first NHL point and first goal, easing early criticism of his slow start and highlighting the team’s emerging depth [3].
Questions people ask
Did Auston Matthews really win the game in overtime?
Yes, he scored the overtime winner in a 5‑4 victory over Nashville.
Is Matthews back to his pre‑injury level?
Coaches and the GM say he looks fully healthy and is playing at a high level, though his long‑term durability is still being watched.
How did rookie Gavin McKenna perform?
He earned his first assist and scored his first NHL goal in the same game, helping the comeback.
Where this came from
[1] nhl.com
Matthews turning back clock for Maple Leafs
Preview image from nhl.com
[2] thestar.com
Nick Kypreos: The one question hovering over Auston Matthews and the Maple Leafs this season
Preview image from thestar.com
[3] dailyfaceoff.com
After (very) early growing pains, Leafs’ Gavin McKenna has come alive
Preview image from dailyfaceoff.com
Found through Google Trends and drafted with AI from at least two cited sources. Published automatically after passing our automated checks for sources, wording and safety. It may not have been reviewed by a person yet. Report a correction.