Matthews lauds improved power play in win over Senators

Toronto Maple Leafs forward Auston Matthews was full of praise for the team's improved offensive firepower following Saturday's 7-5 win over the Ottawa Senators.

Matthews was firing on all cylinders with a goal and two assists, and the three-time Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy winner's line with Max Domi and Bobby McMann combined for five points at even strength.

But it was the Maple Leafs' much-maligned power play that was the biggest difference Saturday, as William Nylander and Matthew Knies both scored with the man advantage in the first period.

"I think the power play helps, obviously, and I think just all four lines are playing hard," Matthews told reporters after the game.

The Leafs, who recently dismissed assistant coach Marc Savard and hired Steve Sullivan to help turn things around in that department, have the NHL's 30th-best power play, converting on 14.7% of chances following the pivotal Battle of Ontario victory in Toronto.

"Winning battles at both net fronts, getting to the opposing team's net and outnumbering guys," Matthews added when asked about the offensive outburst. "And, you know, we're making plays when there (are) plays to be made."

Saturday's victory was Matthews' first three-point outing of the campaign following a four-game stretch where he did not record a point.

Toronto has now potted 13 goals in back-to-back wins over the Senators and Pittsburgh Penguins on either side of the brief holiday break, though the team will now sweat injuries to two key contributors.

Nylander was forced to exit Saturday's contest after sustaining a lower-body injury, and netminder Anthony Stolarz remains out with an upper-body injury. Coach Craig Berube characterized Stolarz's absence as "indefinite" when asked for an update on the goaltender.

The team has yet to provide an update on Nylander, who Matthews says "drives a lot of play for us."

Despite Saturday's win, the Leafs remain last in the Atlantic Division.