Craig Berube Provides New Key Update on Auston Matthews' Injury Status

PUBLICATION

Chris Gerics
November 13, 2024 (8:36 PM)

SHARE THIS STORY

Craig Berube has given a crucial update on superstar Auston Matthews as the Toronto Maple Leafs and their fans nervously await the return of their captain.

With Auston Matthews on the injured reserve since last week, Toronto has been solid for the most part, minus a blemish against the Ottawa Senators. They are 3-1-0 and a lot of players have contributed in the wake of Matthews' absence as the team needed to pull together.

It's no secret Toronto wants their captain back, and as fans wait for the all-clear signal, head coach Craig Berube has at least given a sign as to where Matthews is headed:

Ahead of Wednesday's clash with the Washington Capitals and amongst a bevy of other topics, Berube touched on Matthews' potential return and was brief but blunt in his explanation.

Missing Wednesday's skate to keep recovering, Matthews now has until Saturday to heal up before Toronto faces Edmonton.

It's a big deal for Matthews to return then, as it kicks off a five-game stretch against very good teams.

After Edmonton, they have Vegas, Utah, Florida, and Tampa Bay, and gathering as much chemistry and momentum is vital for the team if they want to win.

Matthews is off to a slower start than usual this season, only scoring five goals but is playing as a more complete player. Craig Berube wants him to play more defensively, and the trade-off is a lack of goal-scoring opportunities (although he's also had some bad puck luck).

Toronto shouldn't rush Matthews back, and when he does return the team should look a lot different.

The absence of Matthews has led to a lot of intriguing potential lines and it wouldn't be a bad idea to split up Matthews and Mitch Marner; who is a completely different beast without #34.

Giving Matthews enough rest is crucial if Toronto wants to go into their next few games with confidence. The team does play better without him, however, it's not sustainable and he does so much more than just score goals. The Maple Leafs need Auston Matthews, but they also need to be careful.