Auston Matthews is Back!

In a much-anticipated comeback, Auston Matthews is set to lead the Toronto Maple Leafs as they take on the Boston Bruins tonight. After missing six games due to a lingering upper-body injury, Matthews is ready to re-enter the ice, rejuvenating his team's hopes for a victory.

Following a successful morning skate at Scotiabank Arena, Matthews expressed his excitement: “Never fun watching, so I feel excited about being back in. The last couple of skates I’ve had, I’ve felt good, and I'm gaining my confidence day by day.” Matthews had not played since December 20, during which time the Leafs recorded an even 3-3-0 without their captain.

Practicing with the Team

At practice, Matthews was seen skating alongside Matthew Knies and Mitch Marner, participating in drills with the first power-play unit. His return was officially confirmed when the Leafs activated him from injured reserve later in the afternoon. Leafs' head coach Craig Berube praised Matthews' impact on the game, stating, “He just drives the pace of play. An extremely hard worker who plays 200 feet, the pace goes up for everybody.”

Lineup Decisions

The coaching staff deliberated on where to slot Matthews back into the lineup before deciding to pair him with Knies and Marner, a line that has shown great chemistry in previous games. Notably, other lines, including those with William Nylander, John Tavares, and Max Pacioretty, have also been performing well.

Matthews’ Confidence and Team Impact

As Matthews gets ready to face the Bruins, he is optimistic about his health. He noted, “I think you’re always managing stuff throughout the year. You just try to stay on top of it and feel as good as you can when you get in the lineup.” His captain and teammate John Tavares acknowledged Matthews’ significance to the team, stating, “It doesn’t get much better than that, when you get our captain back. No one can score goals like him.”

Bruins Aware of the Challenge

The Bruins are fully aware of the threat Matthews poses, with their captain Brad Marchand emphasizing, “He’s such a dangerous player. At all times of the game, he can change the course in a shift. He really changes the dynamic of their team when he’s in the lineup.”

Statistical Edge

Statistically, Matthews has been outstanding against the Bruins, notching 23 points (13 goals and 10 assists) in just 20 career games against them. This performance adds to the intensity of the rivalry as both teams prepare for a fierce competition.

Goalie Matchup

In goal for the Maple Leafs, Joseph Woll is expected to start with Dennis Hildeby backing him up, while the Bruins' Jeremy Swayman is slated to be in net.

A Lighthearted Note

Aside from player updates, Leafs' defenseman Chris Tanev recently confirmed he didn’t lose any teeth after a puck hit his mouth, earning him only eight or nine stitches. He humorously stated, “The snaggletooth won’t go,” pointing out a rather prominent top tooth.

Looking Ahead

Stay tuned as the Maple Leafs aim to capitalize on Matthews' return and secure a vital victory against the formidable Bruins!