Maple Leafs’ Matthews Set to Make Comeback from Upper-Body Injury on Wednesday

Auston Matthews Back at Practice with Toronto Maple Leafs

Auston Matthews joined his first full practice with the Toronto Maple Leafs on Tuesday. He may return from an upper-body injury in time for the game against the Florida Panthers on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. ET.

Matthews, the team captain, missed eight games since November 3. He trained alone after visiting a doctor in Germany for advice on his injury.

“I felt pretty good,” Matthews said. “We will just take it step by step.” He mentioned needing one or two more practices to regain his stamina.

Coach Craig Berube stated there is no pressure for Matthews to rush back. “When a player tells me he’s ready, then he’s ready,” said Berube.

In practice, Matthews played center between Pontus Holmberg and William Nylander. “I thought it was great,” Matthews commented on their teamwork. “They’re both really good players.”

Berube noted that Matthews looked good in practice and showed no issues. After facing the Panthers, the Maple Leafs do not play again until visiting the Tampa Bay Lightning on Saturday. This gap may allow Matthews for extra practice.

Matthews identified conditioning and game timing as important factors in his return. Berube suggested that an additional practice could benefit Matthews.

Toronto has performed well without Matthews, winning seven out of eight games. They currently lead the Atlantic Division by three points over Florida.

“I want to be out there as soon as possible,” Matthews said. “Seeing other players step up is encouraging for us.”