Even if Auston Matthews is considered to have a down year, Craig Button think he should not be in the same category as the other big names.
These comments have brought criticism from fans and analysts who point to Matthews' excellent track record.
While injuries have limited him with 15 missed games this season, Auston Matthews has still managed to contribute and is slowly regaining his elite form.
Auston Matthews' 388 goals in 597 games is better than Draisaitl's 382 in 768 and is showing Matthews as a generational goal-scorer.
Though Draisaitl has the advantage of playing alongside Connor McDavid, Matthews' accomplishments in his 60-goal Hart Trophy-winning season have cemented his status as one of the league's elite to score goal.
Button's perspective seems to favor current season production, but such an argument fails to capture Matthews' overall impact on the ice for the Toronto Maple Leafs.
While this year may not match his historic 2021-22 campaign, Matthews continues to contribute and possesses the unique ability to dominate games offensively and defensively.
Craig Button has the right to his opinion, but saying Matthews' is not among the NHL's best is oversimplified and as the season progresses, Matthews has an opportunity to prove detractors wrong.
A Stanley Cup run would leave little doubt about his standing in the NHL.
POLL | ||
JANVIER 27 | 237 ANSWERS TSN Analyst Ripped Apart Over Comments On Auston Matthews Do you think Auston Matthews is of the same calibre as Leon Draisaitl? | ||
Yes | 168 | 70.9 % |
No | 69 | 29.1 % |
List of polls |