On a latest episode of the JD Bunkis Podcast, two-time Stanley Cup champion Kris Versteeg joined host JD Bunkis to debate the impression of the Maple Leafs’ captaincy on Auston Matthews. Versteeg shared insights on the challenges of management and accountability, highlighting that the added accountability might subtly weigh on Matthews. These weights of being the captain in a hockey-mad market like Toronto embody dealing with Toronto’s intense media and fan scrutiny since his arrival.
On this submit, the video under breaks down the important thing factors Versteeg and Bunkis touched concerning Matthews’ efficiency and potential challenges.
The Weight of Auston Matthews’ Being Captain
Versteeg famous that whereas many contemplate the trendy NHL captaincy much less impactful than prior to now, it’s nonetheless a major accountability, particularly for a star participant in a hockey-centric market like Toronto. Versteeg explains that these pressures are distinctive. Auston Matthews has been below a microscope since being drafted. Including the captaincy additional intensifies this scrutiny. And, when a participant experiences any hunch, the expectations can compound the strain.
In response to Versteeg, the function of captain is about producing on the ice, main teammates, and calling them out when vital. Nonetheless, with this expectation comes the necessity for Matthews to excel individually to steer successfully. For Matthews, any lapse in play is magnified as a result of his efficiency units the usual for the complete staff. Versteeg means that holding others accountable is tough if a participant’s personal efficiency is missing, creating an additional layer of strain for Matthews to remain constantly at his greatest.
Matthews Is Main By Instance and Making an attempt to Do Too A lot
Versteeg compares Matthews to NBA star Kevin Durant. He steered Matthews would possibly typically tackle an excessive amount of, particularly below playoff-like pressures. The Maple Leafs heart, Versteeg notes, often tries to deal with puck battles or prolong shifts in a manner that might overburden him as a substitute of successfully using his linemates. Versteeg factors out that these tendencies, whereas typically well-intentioned, might hinder his sport and even detract from his offensive manufacturing.
Regardless of these challenges, Versteeg expresses confidence that Matthews can work by means of this adjustment interval. The transition to captaincy is an evolution. And with time, Matthews could develop extra comfy delegating obligations and specializing in his strengths. His play might quickly stabilize as he balances the added management function along with his elite ability set.
The Backside Line: Will Matthews Settle Into His New Position?
The elevated strain of captaincy is undoubtedly a think about Matthews’ efficiency, as he works by means of inner and exterior expectations. Whereas Versteeg sees Matthews determining this part, his insights counsel {that a} lighter strategy and a balanced reliance on his teammates may very well be key to unlocking his full potential below the “C.”
If Matthews finds that steadiness, it may very well be the catalyst for his greatest season but, reinforcing his standing because the face of the franchise and as a real chief in Toronto.
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