Concerns Grow Following New Update on Auston Matthews
It's been over two weeks since Auston Matthews last played, and with no set return date, the newest update seems like it could be a worst-case scenario.
Since being placed on the IR on Nov 3., Auston Matthews has been the center of a lot of discussion regarding his health and placement in the lineup upon his return.
Toronto hasn't faltered in his absence, going 5-1-0 and showing an unbelievable amount of resilience in the wake of two back-to-back OT victories. It's going to be great once Matthews is back and can contribute to their winning ways.
However, a new update has suggested that the team may need to wait a bit longer.
It looks like Toronto is expecting Matthews out longer, and it's starting to get worrisome. What went from a day-to-day injury being monitored to now going into week three of no Matthews; what exactly is going on?
Are The Maple Leafs Hiding Something?
It's hard to say. It's concerning that the team has been so hush-hush regarding the actual extent of the injury. If it wasn't serious, surely they could mention it being his back, or ribs, or shoulder.
Anything would give Maple Leafs fans some relief. It's a nail-biting experience to go day in and day out wondering what Matthews' status is, and with each new absence, worry grows.
Toronto has some of the best medical staff in the league, and Matthews has access to the best specialists in the world. If this was a serious issue, Toronto would be privy to getting Matthews checked out if it meant fixing a potential long-term issue.
The Maple Leafs schedule also didn't do Matthews any favors, although it does afford him some extra time. Toronto has a game on Wednesday, then not until Sunday; if Matthews isn't back by the Utah game, yikes.
What's Next For Toronto?
The next stop on their road to the Stanley Cup is back home against Vegas where they will try to continue to ride their momentum into another three-game win streak.
It will be up to Mitch Marner, John Tavares, and William Nylander to pull their weight again as they've done to great success, not to mention the work Matthew Knies and Bobby McMann have done during this stretch.
Toronto faces off against the Vegas Golden Knights on Wednesday, Nov. 20 from Scotiabank Arena in Toronto. The puck is scheduled to drop at 7:30 PM ET.
