Auston Matthews, the star player for the Toronto Maple Leafs, is unlikely to be able to play in Tuesday night’s game against the Boston Bruins, according to multiple league sources. Matthews has been dealing with an illness and had to sit out the third period of Saturday’s Game 4. However, it appears that he may also be nursing an undisclosed injury, making it even more unlikely for him to take the ice in Game 5.
Despite his health issues, Matthews has been doing everything he can to try and play. He was the first player from the Leafs to hit the ice for an optional morning skate on Tuesday, working directly with assistant coach Manny Malhotra. The two practiced passing and shooting drills, with Matthews showing some skill and accuracy in his shots. However, Matthews didn’t push himself too hard during the skate, as head coach Sheldon Keefe explained that his symptoms have worsened when he exerts himself on the ice.
Matthews only spent eight minutes on the ice before leaving. He also sat out practice entirely on Monday, indicating that his condition may not be improving as quickly as hoped. While the team hasn’t officially ruled him out for the game, Keefe doesn’t seem overly optimistic about Matthews’ chances of playing. The final decision will ultimately be up to the team doctors, who will prioritize Matthews’ health and well-being.
If Matthews is unable to play, it would be only the second game he’s missed all season. It would also be the first playoff game he’s missed in his eight-year NHL career. His absence would be a significant blow to the Leafs, as Matthews has been a key contributor in the series so far, with three points including a game-winning goal in Game 2.
In preparation for the possibility of Matthews being out, Max Domi has replaced him on the first line alongside Tyler Bertuzzi and Mitch Marner. Domi has also taken Matthews’ spot on the team’s top power-play unit. It will be interesting to see how the Leafs adjust their game plan without their star player if he is indeed unable to play.
Overall, the situation surrounding Auston Matthews’ availability for Game 5 is uncertain. The Leafs will have to wait for a final decision from the doctors, who will prioritize his health and safety. If he is unable to play, it will be a significant loss for the team, but they will have to find a way to adapt and continue their pursuit of victory in the series against the Bruins.