Matthews Earns NHL First Star After Nine Points in Three Games

Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews has earned the NHL's First Star of the Week honor after recording nine points, including three goals, across three games. His production helped Toronto post a 2-0-1 record during the week, according to Sportsnet's report published October 12, 2026. Matthews delivered two four-point performances during the stretch and scored an overtime winner against the Nashville Predators in the opening game.

According to Sportsnet, the goal was the 15th overtime winner of his career. The 29-year-old center is tied for sixth in the NHL's season scoring standings with 10 points, comprising four goals and six assists. The weekly recognition comes a decade after he made his NHL debut with four goals.

Dallas Stars goaltender Jake Oettinger received the league's second star recognition after helping his team finish the week with a 2-0-1 record. He allowed just one goal and stopped 59 of 60 shots faced, according to Sportsnet.

Oettinger began the week with consecutive shutout victories over San Jose and Buffalo. The Stars then suffered a 2-1 shootout loss to Pittsburgh on Saturday, completing their three-game stretch. New York Rangers forward Alexis Lafreniere earned the third star after leading the NHL with five goals during the week. His scoring helped the Rangers secure two victories, according to Sportsnet.