Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews has been absent since December 20. A game against the Buffalo Sabers during which he re-aggravated his upper body injury.
Today, as reported in an article on the NHL website, the star forward explained that he still does not know when he will be ready and that he does not even know if a possible return to play is possible. Seen for a second time in training, he broached the subject of his injury with journalists.
“It was good to be with the team and get some reps. I take it one day at a time. Every injury is different. It’s always frustrating not to play, but I try to be conscientious. It’s good to be with the guys. It’s important to take part in a full workout, especially when you’ve been away for a long time. But I’m taking things one day at a time. I feel good, I feel better every day. So we hope that progression follows this positive trend. » -Auston Matthews
THE Leafs will face the New York Islanders tomorrow night on Long Island. Unfortunately for them, they will once again have to deal with the absence of Matthews who has already been ruled out from a possible return to play. His presence in Saturday’s match also remains uncertain. Coach Craig Berube wants him to return to the lineup, but still wants #34 to remain cautious.
“Ideally, he would work with his linemates and do all the necessary things in practice. It might take two more practices. I have the impression [qu’il fait du progrès]. Seeing him here in training is progress. He’s going in the right direction. There is no timetable, although we would like to have one, but it was good to see him on the ice. » -Craig Berube
Matthews still wears a no-contact jersey in practice, but participates in rehearsals and stays there for the full duration.
The Leafs held up during their captain’s last absence, sporting a record of seven wins and two losses. However, they are not experiencing the same scenario this time. They have only two wins and three losses.
Despite a long absence, Matthews has a record of 11 goals and 12 assists in 24 games. The 27-year-old American is fourth among his team’s top scorers.
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