Toronto Maple Leafs forward Auston Matthews enjoyed yet another stellar regular season, once again capturing the Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy as the National Hockey League's top goal scorer. It marked the third time in the last four seasons that he's done so, cementing his place as one of the top offensive threats of the modern era.
However, like the rest of his teammates, he's been unable to parlay that regular season success into a lengthy playoff run. Matthews and the Leafs have won a single postseason series since 2004, well before Matthews ever professionally laced up a pair of skates.
While speaking on an episode of "Leafs Morning Take" with ex-Leafs player Jay Rosehill, Nick Alberga opined that Matthews needs to display more swagger - as he put it "get a little bit cocky".
"More of the same, obviously, with the goal scoring," he said. "He's one of the best in the world at scoring goals. You want to have a nice campaign and follow up a huge season with another one and show that I'm not streaky, I'm consistent, and I am always this good."
"But other factors, too, like his leadership to be able to get the team on his back, to lead by example. Setups, too, and getting the assists as well," he continued. "Being a well-rounded player, I'd like to see him get a little bit physical, get a little bit chirpy out there, get a little bit cocky, tell the whole bench to fu** them like, you know what I mean? And just have that little swagger like, 'oh, my God, this guy is controlling everything.'"
Matthews is entering the first season of the four year, $53 million contract that carries an AAV of $13.25 million.
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