In a significant blow to their lineup, the Toronto Maple Leafs will be without star center Auston Matthews for Saturday night’s matchup against the New York Islanders. The reigning Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy winner suffered an undisclosed injury late in Friday’s 6-3 victory over the Buffalo Sabres.
Head coach Craig Berube revealed that Matthews took a cross-check to the back in the dying minutes against Buffalo. When pressed on whether the issue was related to the upper-body injury that sidelined Matthews for nine games last month, Berube indicated it was “a little bit of both” a new concern and an aggravation of the previous ailment.
Matthews’ Injury Woes Continue
The Maple Leafs are all too familiar with playing without their franchise centerpiece. Matthews missed over a month of action earlier this season, traveling to Germany for specialized treatment on the undisclosed upper-body injury. The 25-year-old has suited up for just 24 of Toronto’s 36 games thus far.
Despite the extended absences, Matthews has still managed to light the lamp with regularity when healthy. The generational sniper has potted 11 goals to go along with 12 assists on the campaign, including the game-winning tally in his return to the lineup Friday in Buffalo.
Leafs Soldier on Without Their Leader
With Matthews unavailable, Toronto will turn to their impressive forward depth to shoulder the offensive load against the Islanders. Versatile wingers Ryan Reaves and Connor Dewar will draw into the lineup, while young Swede Pontus Holmberg is expected to take on an expanded role.
Auston is obviously a special player and a huge part of this team, but we have a lot of talent in that room. It’s going to take a group effort, but we’re confident we can step up and get the job done.
Leafs alternate captain Mitch Marner
The Maple Leafs currently sit second in the ultra-competitive Atlantic Division, four points back of the red-hot Boston Bruins. Keeping pace in the standings is paramount, meaning Toronto can ill afford to stumble in Matthews’ absence, especially against an inferior opponent in the Islanders.
No Timeline for Matthews’ Return
As of now, there is no clear timeline for when the Leafs can expect to have their captain back in the fold. Berube classified Matthews as “day-to-day” but noted the team will take a cautious approach to avoid rushing him back prematurely.
- Matthews has a history of nagging injuries in his young career
- The Leafs have ample talent but lack a gamebreaker of Matthews’ caliber
- Losing Matthews for any extended period could derail Toronto’s Stanley Cup aspirations
The Maple Leafs faithful will be holding their collective breath that this latest setback is only a minor speed bump and not a sign of things to come. With a roster built to win now, Toronto needs a healthy Matthews to lead their postseason charge and exorcise the franchise’s playoff demons once and for all.
