How Leafs’ Auston Matthews, William Nylander are responding to increased ice time

Toronto Maple Leafs forwards Auston Matthews and William Nylander are experiencing career-high ice time under new head coach Jim Hiller. Through the first seven games of the 2026-27 season, both players have recorded five goals and seven assists for 12 points each. Matthews is currently averaging 21 minutes and 55 seconds per game, while Nylander is logging an average of 20 minutes and 24 seconds.

Matthews is also starting 62.1% of his five-on-five shifts in the offensive zone, up significantly from previous seasons under former coach Craig Berube. Despite the high-scoring production from their top stars, the Maple Leafs hold a 3-3-1 record heading into a three-game home stand against Buffalo, the New York Islanders, and San Jose.