Ex-NHLer issues challenge to Auston Matthews as Leafs hit rock bottom

As the Toronto Maple Leafs continue to spiral, former NHL forward Kris Versteeg has delivered a pointed challenge to Auston Matthews. Speaking in a segment of The JD Bunkis Podcast, Versteeg argued that Matthews’ looming return from injury represents a pivotal moment not only for the team but for the star center’s legacy.

Versteeg noted the heavy criticism surrounding Mitch Marner’s departure, the Leafs’ roster construction, and Brad Treliving’s decisions, but insisted Matthews has an opportunity to redefine the conversation.

"If you're Matthews and you're a player, like, this is kind of a moment ... where you've got to put the team on your back and take them back, because everyone's talking about Marner," Versteeg said. "The guy is the reason this team isn't winning, or this is the reason, so why not be part of the success?

"Why not be a guy that gets a little bit pissed off, put the team on your back and take them back and kind of get you guys out of this ditch..."

Versteeg added that even if Marner were still in Toronto, the Leafs’ identity crisis would persist, placing even more importance on Matthews stepping up as the team’s anchor.

The urgency is clear because Toronto sits at 9-10-3. They have suffered seven losses in their last eight games, due to defensive breakdowns, erratic scoring, and special team issues. This has crippled their early season. Injuries have hollowed the lineup, with Matthews’ absence being the most damaging.

"This is a big moment in Matthew's career," Versteeg said.

Before the injury, Matthews had nine goals and 14 points in 17 games, below his usual scoring pace. Meanwhile, Marner, now thriving in Vegas with 21 points in 22 games, has only intensified comparisons and pressure.

Updates related to Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews

Auston Matthews, currently on injured reserve with a lower-body issue, has not been ruled out for Wednesday’s game against the Columbus Blue Jackets. Craig Berube said the team expects clarity after Tuesday’s practice.

"I'll probably know tomorrow if they're available Wednesday," Berube said, via Mark Masters on Monday.

In his latest update, Masters has given another update on Auston Matthews and other Leafs players.

"Injured forwards Auston Matthews, Nicolas Roy & Matthew Knies are all in grey sweaters ahead of Leafs practice, which usually identifies an extra player/scratch," Masters wrote on X.

And once Matthews returns, Versteeg believes he can seize the narrative. With the Leafs at rock bottom, he argues this is the moment for Toronto’s franchise player to show he can carry the club when it matters most.