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Auston Matthews and Leon Draisaitl
Photo credit: Perry Nelson-USA TODAY

Insider reveals the real differences between Draisaitl and Matthews

Published May 4, 2024 at 6:51 PM
BY FRED MALTES
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In a recent episode of the OilersNation podcast, a fiery debate emerged over whether Auston Matthews or Leon Draisaitl shines brighter in their respective hockey roles.

The conversation took a deeper dive when NHL insider Frank Seravalli, CEO of thedailyfaceoff.com, joined to shed light on who he believes stands out during the crucial playoff games.

During the discussion, Seravalli emphasized the importance of playoff performance in building a successful team. He argued that players who excel in the playoffs can elevate their team when it counts the most, making them invaluable assets.

His perspective was enriched by a comparison with Mitch Marner, Matthews' teammate on the Toronto Maple Leafs, who, despite scoring an impressive 95 points during the regular season, seemingly struggles to make a significant impact in the playoffs.


The debate was underpinned by stark statistics that highlighted the playoff performances of Draisaitl and Matthews. Draisaitl, in his 54 playoff appearances, has an impressive tally of 36 goals and 51 assists, summing up to 87 points with a plus-minus of +12, showcasing his impact on the ice during the postseason. This information was highlighted on social media by a post from OilersNation, accessible at



Matthews, on the other hand, despite playing the same number of playoff games, has amassed 23 goals and 24 assists for 47 points, with a plus-minus of +1. His playoff performance, while solid, does not quite compare with Draisaitl's, leading to discussions about his potential to evolve into a truly elite playoff performer. Further details on Matthews' playoff statistics can be viewed at


The discourse surrounding these two athletes is not just about numbers but also about their ability to influence games during the most pivotal moments. As Seravalli and the hosts dissected, the data does not lie: Draisaitl currently outshines Matthews in playoff scenarios.


However, as with all great sports narratives, the future remains unwritten, and Matthews' journey to possibly redefine his playoff legacy is a storyline filled with anticipation.

The entire discussion underscores a broader narrative about what truly defines the greatness of a hockey player—is it the consistent excellence in the regular season or the ability to rise to the occasion when the stakes are highest? This debate continues to engage fans and experts alike, providing rich fodder for analysis and conversation in the hockey community.
POLL
May 4   |   483 answers
Insider reveals the real differences between Draisaitl and Matthews

Which player do you think is the best overall?

Leon Draisaitl46496.1 %
Auston Matthews193.9 %
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