NHL adjusts Auston Matthews’ stats ahead of critical game 5

A win in Game 5 would send them to the second round. The Toronto Maple Leafs stand on the verge of a playoff milestone. A rare feat for the franchise in recent years. This remains pivotal to their success. Auston Matthews, though not replicating his historic 69-goal season.
The NHL made a quiet but notable update to Matthews’ postseason stats. A secondary assist was added to his name for a key play in Game 4. The adjustment underscores his ability to influence games beyond the scoresheet.


His 78 points were a step back from last year’s 107. Matthews finished the regular season with 33 goals and 45 assists. But he remains a driving force. In the playoffs, he has one goal and five assists. That too through four games.
The added assist came on a Matthew Knies goal in Game 4. Initially. Only Mitch Marner was credited with the helper. Upon review, Matthews earned recognition for disrupting a Senators’ play. This is leading to Marner’s setup. The goal tied the game, though Toronto eventually fell in overtime.


The play in question involved Matthews blocking a shot from Ottawa’s Artem Zub. The deflection allowed Marner to seize the puck. Also spring Knies for a breakaway. Knies buried the chance. But Matthews’ role went unnoticed until the league’s review.
Scoring changes are common in hockey. Often correcting overlooked contributions. This one highlights Matthews’ two-way game. His defensive effort directly led to offense. This is a testament to his well-rounded play. Even without eye-popping numbers, he finds ways to tilt the ice.

The Maple Leafs have struggled to escape the first round for two decades. Since 2003-04, they’ve advanced just twice. This year’s team, bolstered by Matthews and a deep roster, has its best chance in years.
Game 5 presents an opportunity to close the series at home. Matthews’ adjusted stat line serves as a reminder of his importance. Whether scoring or creating chances, his presence looms large. Toronto will need him at his best to avoid another playoff disappointment.
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The extra assist won’t drastically alter Matthews’ legacy. But it reinforces his value in all situations. Playoff success often hinges on unsung moments. A blocked shot, a smart deflection, a hustle play. Matthews delivers those as much as he does highlight-reel goals.
As the series shifts back to Toronto, all eyes will be on the Leafs’ star. The scoring change is a footnote in the bigger story. Yet, it’s a fitting snapshot of how Matthews impacts winning. Even when the stats don’t immediately show it.