Leafs star forward spotted working with a back specialist which is raising eyebrows in Toronto
Photo credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
Matthews is training in Arizona with a chiropractor known for treating back issues, and Leafs fans are taking notice.
Auston Matthews has been putting in work this summer, but it's who he's training with that has Maple Leafs fans buzzing.
Photos surfaced showing Matthews in Arizona with sports chiropractor Shawn Robek, a specialist who has built a reputation for helping athletes manage back pain.
Robek shared a post on social media praising Matthews for his work ethic and positive attitude in the office, wishing him well heading into the 2026-27 season.
On the surface, it reads like a routine offseason checkup.
But for a player whose durability has been a talking point in Toronto for years, any mention of a back specialist tends to raise eyebrows among the fanbase.
“One of the best parts of surviving the 115-degree Scottsdale heat is getting to work with this guy during the summer. Auston always brings a smile, works hard, and is an absolute pleasure to have in the office.
Wishing you an incredible 2026-27 season, Auston!”
- Shawn Robek
Wishing you an incredible 2026-27 season, Auston!”
- Shawn Robek
Why this matters for the Leafs
Matthews has dealt with various injury concerns throughout his career, and back issues in particular can be tricky for a player who relies so heavily on his shot and skating power.
Toronto is heading into a pivotal season, and having their franchise center fully healthy is non negotiable if the Leafs want to make a real push in the postseason.
Working with a chiropractor doesn't necessarily mean something is wrong.
Plenty of athletes use preventative care and maintenance routines to stay ahead of problems before they start.
Still, the timing and public nature of the visit is enough to get the rumor mill going in Toronto.
What comes next
Training camp will offer the clearest picture of where Matthews stands physically.
Until then, this is the kind of offseason story that tends to snowball.
This is especially true with a fanbase that has learned to read into every offseason update involving their captain.
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