The Core Four in Toronto is now the Core Three following the departure of Mitch Marner to the Knights. John Tavares, William Nylander and Auston Matthews remain with the Buds. Mathew Knies is doing his best to become the newest member of the "Fab Four," but even if that happens, he is not the key to the Maple Leafs' hopes.
Toronto's blueline and goaltending are of course two major keys. But they need Matthews to put on his Superman cape and carry the team. He notched a goal and two assists while posting nine shots on net Saturday. With that effort, Matthews is up to 15 tallies and 11 helpers in 32 contests.
Matthews will need to post most lines like he did Saturday to help power Toronto forward.