Concerns mount over Auston Matthews' health after new photo surfaces before the season

While listed at 215 pounds on the NHL website, Matthews doesn't appear to match this number in the new image circulating online.

The photo, which has spread across social media, particularly on Twitter shows a slimmer-looking Matthews. This has left fans speculating that his weight is significantly lower than the reported 215 pounds. Some believe Matthews may have dropped 15 to 20 pounds, aiming to boost his speed and agility on the ice.

During the 2023 NHL playoffs, Matthews missed games 4, 5, and 6 in the first round due to illness. His illness also hindered his performance in game 3, and although he returned for game 7, it wasn't enough to lead the Leafs to victory. Some speculate that this illness might have contributed to his current condition.

Fans have been quick to share their thoughts on the photo. Some believe that the official weight on the NHL website might be outdated, and others are more concerned about his health, especially following the illness during the playoffs. The speculation that Matthews may be intentionally cutting weight for performance improvements has added another layer to the conversation.

Despite these concerns, Matthews' performance on the ice has remained remarkable. He has scored 60 or more goals in two of the last three seasons, bringing his career totals to 368 goals and 281 assists in just 562 games. Drafted first overall in 2016, Matthews has become one of the most dominant centers in the NHL, earning him the captaincy after it was transitioned from John Tavares this past offseason.

Fans will be eager to see whether this new, lighter Matthews can maintain his elite scoring pace and help push the Leafs further in the upcoming season.

Source: Auston Matthews's new photo

Source for Auston Matthews's stats: HockeyDB}»