Recent analysis has placed Auston Matthews, the Toronto Maple Leafs' star center and captain, under intense scrutiny, with some suggesting he is currently the team's biggest issue. This assessment comes amidst a season where the Maple Leafs have struggled to meet expectations, and Matthews' individual performance has dipped compared to his previous high standards.

Veteran NHL analyst Jim Matheson recently criticized Matthews' leadership, pointing to a perceived lack of consistency and impact. Matheson suggested that John Tavares, with his steady performance, should arguably still wear the "C". This sentiment reflects a growing unease among some observers regarding Matthews' ability to elevate his team during crucial moments.

Matthews' offensive output this season, while still respectable, has fallen short of his elite scoring seasons. He has recorded 14 goals and 9 assists in 29 games, a 0.79 points-per-game rate. This decline has led to questions about his ability to be the Leafs' star forward, with some suggesting he hasn't looked like his former Hart Trophy-winning self.

Adding to the pressure, Matthews faced boos from Toronto fans during a recent game against the Chicago Blackhawks. His response, cupping his hand to his ear after scoring a goal, was interpreted by many as taunting the crowd and further fueled the debate about his connection with the fanbase during a difficult season. Matthews later described the reaction as being "in the moment".

Coach Craig Berube has also openly criticized the team's execution, particularly the power play, emphasizing the need for greater accountability. While some believe Berube might be on the hot seat, others, like analyst Jay Rosehill, argue that the problem lies more with the players' execution and buy-in than with the coaching. Rosehill highlighted a pattern in Toronto where coaches often absorb blame when results fail to meet expectations.

The criticism surrounding Matthews isn't solely about statistics; it also concerns his leadership presence and ability to take over games. While he possesses the talent to be a dominant force, some observers feel he hasn't consistently demonstrated the clutch performance expected of a franchise player, especially in the playoffs. Some analysts suggest that Matthews' game needs a spark, even proposing a temporary line change to help him revitalize his play.

Ultimately, the spotlight on Auston Matthews reflects the high expectations placed on him and the Toronto Maple Leafs. As captain and highest-paid player, he is expected to lead the team to success, and any perceived shortcomings are bound to be magnified. Whether Matthews can silence his critics and elevate his game remains a key question for the Maple Leafs as they navigate the rest of the season.