Auston Matthews’ summer preparation is about much more than simply getting his knee healthy. The Toronto Maple Leafs captain has been working with Arizona-based chiropractor and rehabilitation specialist Dr. Shawn Robek, a key member of his performance team for roughly four years. Robek recently offered a revealing look at the extensive work underway 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 the Anaheim Ducks, the result of a nasty hit by Radko Gudas. The injury ended his season after 60 games. In an appearance on TSN 1050’s First Up, Robek discussed the offseason plans and the specific focus on returning Matthews to the level of his 69-goal self.
According to Robek, the knee has clearly been the priority this summer rather than the lower-back issues Matthews has often dealt with in previous years. “With Auston, low back was not the concern this year. Obviously, we’re taking care of his knee,” Robek said.
That work forms only one piece of a much larger recovery plan. Robek explained that Matthews is surrounded by a network of specialists addressing strength, movement, rehabilitation, and sport-specific demands. “When they all come together, that’s when you have a complete product,” he noted.
The comprehensive approach carries particular weight for a player who has navigated 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 saw his 2025-26 campaign cut short. This offseason has been more involved than previous ones, yet Robek believes Matthews is approaching the process with the right mindset. “I think this year has been more extensive but also fun at the same point,” he said.
Most encouragingly, Robek described Matthews as being in a positive place. “It’s fun to see Auston come in with energy and a smile and optimism,” he added. He also praised the captain’s dedication, calling his commitment to the offseason routine remarkable and unique even among elite athletes.
For the Maple Leafs, Matthews’ health stands as one of the biggest storylines heading into the new season. Sidelined by injuries and then by the knee-on-knee collision, he finished with 27 goals and 53 points in 60 games—solid production for most top-six centers, yet well below the standard he has set for himself. Coming after a 78-point campaign the prior year, those numbers have fueled legitimate questions about whether Toronto will again see the version of Matthews capable of scoring 60 goals while ranking among the league’s best defensive forwards and contending for MVP honors.
The Leafs are counting on their captain to return at full strength. The detailed, multi-specialist preparation taking place this summer is the clearest available sign that Matthews is leaving nothing to chance. Whether it produces another elite offensive season will only be answered once he is back on the ice.