Auston Matthews' Actions Spark Speculation of Possible Injury
Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews' latest actions could spark a lot of conversation regarding another injury, as the superstar was seen taking additional practice.
With the Maple Leafs headed into Utah for their first ever matchup with the NHL's newest franchise, the are looking to end a rough three game losing streak and try to take advantage of a suddenly weakened Florida Panthers squad and close the Atlantic Division gap.
But ahead of their practice, they held an optional skate for some players to get some extra reps. It's nothing unusual, but the fact that captain Auston Matthews was seen skating in them is however.
Matthews taking part in the optional skate could just simply mean he was trying to get a feel for his shot again (he's struggling to score but he has a 12-game point streak) although it does leave a cause for concern.
Auston Matthews Injured Yet Again?
He's dealt with two injuries already this season, and potentially was dealing with an injury during the 4 Nations Face-Off; so perhaps it's not just a case of hitting the ice for some extra skating time and might be trying to get comfortable with whatever he's dealing with.
Again, this could all be nothing, but it will be something to keep an eye on as Toronto heads into Utah tonight. If Matthews doesn't have a good game and looks like he's falling behind, then it might be time to hit the panic button.
Matthews has been solid even with his injuries this season. Though he's not scoring as many goals, he does have 56 points in 48 games (23G, 33A) but is having his worst shooting season as well as taking a hit defensively.
If the Maple Leafs are going to be without Matthews yet again, then it's going to rely on Mitch Marner once again to lead the charge. We won't know if it's anything serious until after the Utah game, however if we hear that Matthews is going to be day-to-day afterward?
Expect a lengthy absence again from the captain.
