How Hard Is It to Score in the NHL? Anthony Stewart on Matthews and the Leafs
LEAF IT TO THE LADIES https://www.speakpipe.com/msg/s/428755/1/70vrrftg0jeql7ag
The Leafs gave us plenty to talk about this week — and we’re breaking it all down with insight, energy, and a little fan therapy along the way. ️
Auston Matthews officially cements his place in Maple Leafs history, becoming the franchise’s all-time goals leader with 421 goals — but the conversation doesn’t stop there. We dig into why Matthews may need to shoot even more to keep climbing, and how recent coaching changes have sparked real improvement on the Leafs’ power play.
In our fan-favourite segment “Leaf it to the Ladies,” we bring perspective, passion, and plenty of truth from the stands. Then, in the Third Period, we’re joined by Anthony Stewart — former NHLer and broadcaster — who shares what it’s really like trying to score at the NHL level, plus his thoughts on the Leafs, league parity, and why Team Canada looks loaded heading into the Olympics.
We also take an honest look at Morgan Rielly’s struggles, what simplifying his game could mean for the blue line, and why the Leafs may need to add one or two defensemen to steady things as the season ramps up. With the NHL standings tighter than ever, predicting the playoffs feels impossible — especially with a brutal January schedule looming.
As always, we want to hear from you. Your questions, takes, and feedback help drive the conversation — so don’t be shy.
If you’re a Leafs fan looking for smart analysis, honest debate, and a fun, fan-first vibe, this episode is a must-listen. Go Leafs Go!
Chapters
00:00 Celebrating Auston Matthews' Milestone
02:31 Listener Feedback: Power Play Concerns
06:06 Auston Matthews' Shooting Strategy
12:09 Interview with Anthony Stewart
18:13 Morgan Rielly's Struggles
24:08 Team Canada in the Olympics
30:43 Leafs' Playoff Prospects and Team Improvements
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https://www.nhl.com/news/auston-matthews-mats-sundin-maple-leafs-goals-record
https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/maple-leafs-take-easy-way-out-with-firing-of-assistant-marc-savard/
https://torontosun.com/sports/hockey/nhl/toronto-maple-leafs/why-the-maple-leafs-promoted-steve-sullivan-to-coaching-staff
https://theleafsnation.com/news/how-matthew-knies-thriving-bumper-role-toronto-maple-leafs-new-look-power-play
https://thehockeywriters.com/auston-matthews-back-to-being-lethal-scoring-threat/
https://mapleleafshotstove.com/2026/01/05/toronto-maple-leafs-notebook-morgan-rielly-brandon-carlo-nick-robertson-bobby-mcmann-auston-matthews/
https://www.nhl.com/news/canada-2026-olympic-hockey-team-roster-at-a-glance
https://torontosun.com/sports/hockey/nhl/toronto-maple-leafs/going-up-maple-leafs-might-have-to-take-the-stairs-in-packed-division