Auston Matthews’ summer preparation is about much more than getting his knee healthy.
The Toronto Maple Leafs captain has been working with Arizona-based chiropractor and rehabilitation specialist Dr. Shawn Robek, who has been part of Matthews’ performance team for roughly four years. Robek recently offered a glimpse into the extensive work being done as Matthews prepares for the 2026-27 season.
Matthews underwent surgery after suffering a Grade 3 MCL tear and quadriceps contusion in his left leg during a March game against Anaheim after the nasty hit by Radko Gudas. The injury ended his season after 60 games.
Robek recently went on TSN 1050's First Up to discuss all about the offseason plans for Matthews and what they were really focusing on to get him back to his 69-goal self.
Auston Matthews had big summer for his health
According to Robek, the knee is clearly the priority this summer, rather than the lower-back issues he has often dealt with previously.
“With Auston, low back was not the concern this year. Obviously, we’re taking care of his knee,” Robek said.
His work is only one part of a much larger recovery plan. Robek explained that Matthews is surrounded by specialists working on strength, movement, rehabilitation and sport-specific demands.
“When they all come together, that’s when you have a complete product,” Robek said.
That comprehensive approach is particularly important for a player who has dealt with physical setbacks over the past two seasons. Matthews scored 33 goals in 67 games in 2024-25 after reaching 69 goals the year before, then had his 2025-26 campaign cut short.
Robek said the current offseason has been more involved than previous ones, but he also believes Matthews is approaching the process with the right attitude.
“I think this year has been more extensive but also fun at the same point,” Robek said.
Most encouragingly, Robek described Matthews as being in a positive place as he works his way back.
“It’s fun to see Auston come in with energy and a smile and optimism,” he said.
Robek also praised Matthews’ dedication, saying the captain’s commitment to his offseason routine is unusual even among elite athletes.
“The level of commitment he puts into taking care of himself in the offseason is remarkable and unique,” Robek said.
Matthews needs to have a big Leafs season
For Toronto, Matthews’ health will be one of the biggest storylines heading into the new season.
Sidelined by injuries and then his season being cut short by that vicious knee-on-knee collision, Matthews scored just 27 gaols and 53 points in 60 games -- a perfectly fine amount for any normal top-six center in the NHL, but not for Auston Matthews. Especially considering that came after a mediocre 78-point campaign the year prior, there are major concerns whether or not we're ever going to see the Matthews that scores 60 goals while being one of the best defensive forwards in hockey and wins MVP titles.
The Leafs are counting on their captain to return at full strength, and the detailed preparation happening this summer is the latest sign that he is doing everything possible to make that happen.
Whether it leads to another elite offensive season will only be answered once Matthews is back on the ice.
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