The center, who had an NHL career-high 73 points (37 goals, 36 assists) in 68 games this season, intends to be better beginning with Game 1 at TD Garden on Thursday (7 p.m. ET; NBCSN, CBC, SN, TVAS).
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"Demanding the puck more from our defense, carrying it myself whether it's chipping it in the zone and getting after it to make a play or taking it in myself, it's more of a confidence thing," Matthews said after practice Monday. "When I've been skating (like I have lately), demanding the puck and carrying it through the neutral zone with my size and speed, I think that's dangerous for the Bruins because we're on top of their defense and trying to force them to turn it over and push them back."
Matthews was held to two points (one goal, one assist) in a seven-game loss to Boston in the first round last season. Maple Leafs coach Mike Babcock said it was a lesson about the difference between the regular season and postseason, especially for a player who is always going to draw attention from opponents.