It’s the kind of list that’s designed to make waves, and the latest NHL Network top 20 centers ranking for the 2025-26 season has certainly done that, especially with the Toronto Maple Leafs fan base. Seeing Auston Matthews, a Hart Trophy winner and arguably the most prolific goal-scorer of his generation, sitting at number seven has sent shockwaves through the hockey world. But as an insider who’s been following these debates for years, I’m here to tell you to take a breath. Let’s break down what’s really going on here.
Is This Ranking a Slight on Auston Matthews or a Wake-Up Call?
The immediate reaction from many is outrage. How can the man who has consistently outscored everyone since entering the league be ranked behind players like Jack Eichel and Sidney Crosby? While the accolades are undeniable—401 goals in 629 games, two 60-goal seasons—the panel’s reasoning seems to center on two key factors: recent injuries and a perceived lack of a “meaner” edge to his game.
This past season, we saw glimpses of Matthews playing through something, and it’s clear that his health played a significant role in this ranking. The panel isn’t questioning his talent; they’re questioning his ability to stay at that Hart-winning level consistently.
The Path Back to the Top
So, what does this mean for Auston Matthews and the Leafs? It’s simple: this is bulletin board material. The NHL Network’s ranking isn’t a definitive statement but a reflection of the current landscape. They see the potential for him to be a top-three, even top-two, center in the league, right behind McDavid.
The blueprint is there: stay healthy and add a bit more grit to his game. He has the size, the skill, and the shot. Now, it’s about putting it all together, season after season. Don’t be surprised to see a motivated Matthews come out flying this season, ready to prove that he belongs in the top tier of NHL centers. This isn’t a slight; it’s a challenge.
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