Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews Calls Out 'Embarrassing' Trend Before Flyers Clash

Toronto's captain speaks out after another tough loss as his team fights to stay in playoff contention.

Mar. 2, 2026 at 1:47pm

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Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews criticized his team's recent play as "embarrassing" after a 5-2 loss to the Ottawa Senators on Saturday. The Maple Leafs have struggled since returning from the Olympic break, falling to 27-24-9 on the season and tied for last place in the Atlantic Division. Matthews and defenseman Jake McCabe both voiced frustration with the team's lack of effort and focus. The Maple Leafs will look to turn things around on Monday night when they host the Philadelphia Flyers in a crucial game that could impact their trade deadline strategy.

Why it matters

The Maple Leafs are in danger of missing the playoffs if they can't turn things around quickly. As one of the NHL's marquee franchises, a postseason absence would be a major disappointment for the team and its passionate fan base. Matthews' strong comments indicate the players are aware of the urgency to improve their play and keep their playoff hopes alive.

The details

The Maple Leafs fell behind early against the Senators but were able to tie the game 1-1 in the first period. However, they were outmatched the rest of the way, allowing four unanswered goals in a 5-2 defeat. Matthews said the team was "disconnected throughout all three zones" and lacked "pride in our play." Defenseman Jake McCabe was even more blunt, saying the team "s**t the bed" after a decent start.

  • The Maple Leafs lost 5-2 to the Ottawa Senators on Saturday, March 2, 2026.
  • The Maple Leafs will host the Philadelphia Flyers on Monday, March 4, 2026.

The players

Auston Matthews

The captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs and one of the NHL's elite players.

Jake McCabe

A defenseman for the Toronto Maple Leafs who also criticized the team's recent play.

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What they’re saying

“I thought we started better. We just kind of lost it there. Just really disconnected throughout all three zones. Just bad. Just fairly embarrassing, to be honest with you. We need to have more pride in our play, no matter where we're at, no matter what the situation is.”

— Auston Matthews

“A good first five minutes, I thought. We get the first goal, which we've been searching for. And then s**t the bed after that.”

— Jake McCabe, Defenseman

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.