The Toronto Maple Leafs are entering the 2025-26 NHL season with a renewed sense of optimism, thanks in large part to their captain, Auston Matthews. After a season disrupted by injury, Matthews says he is feeling fully healthy and ready to lead the team both at home and on the international stage.

The 26-year-old center admitted that last season’s setbacks tested his resilience. Matthews missed several games due to an offseason injury sustained during training camp and flew to Munich for specialized treatment. Despite managing the issue, it ultimately affected his production, limiting him to 78 points (33 goals, 45 assists) in 67 games.

“My health is good,” Matthews said, according to NHL.com. “I feel a lot better. I think I took really good steps this offseason as far as that goes, and

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