The Toronto Maple Leafs are getting a significant boost for tonight’s game as Auston Matthews returns after missing six games due to an undisclosed injury, widely believed to be related to his wrist, though this has not been confirmed. The Leafs will face the Boston Bruins, fresh off two wins against the struggling New York Islanders.
Despite being tied for first in the Atlantic Division and posting a 6-4 record in their last ten games, the Leafs’ recent success has been somewhat misleading. Their goaltending has faltered, and most of their wins have come against weaker teams like Buffalo and the Islanders, along with a victory over Detroit. The only solid win in that stretch was against Dallas, which they barely deserved.
Nevertheless, with Matthews back, the Leafs now have a chance to build on their luck and make the season a successful one. However, there is debate over whether Matthews should even be playing, given he has reportedly attempted to play through pain twice this season. Some argue the Leafs should rest him until he is fully healthy to avoid further risk to their star player, though the secretive nature of NHL injury reports makes it difficult to know the full extent of the situation.
Tonight’s game is also critical for the Bruins, who have been playing well since firing their coach early in the season. A win would bring them within four points of the Leafs, while a loss would leave them eight points behind.
Leafs’ Lineup for the Morning Skate:
- Knies – Matthews – Marner
- Pacioretty – Tavares – Nylander
- McMann – Domi – Robertson
- Lorentz – Kampf – Dewar
- Rielly – Myers
- McCabe – Tanev
- Benoit – Ekman-Larsson
- Woll (starting in net)
- Hildeby
With Matthews back, the Leafs’ lineup looks much stronger, eliminating the need for David Kampf in the top six. However, some lineup decisions could be improved: Matthew Knies, currently on the top line, isn’t playing at a top-six level and should be replaced by McMann or Robertson, both of whom deserve more ice time with the Leafs’ star players. Additionally, moving Max Domi to the wing with Matthews, where he has had success, could be beneficial. The Leafs should also consider splitting up their three franchise players and call up Alex Steeves, who is overdue for an NHL regular spot.
Despite these considerations, with Matthews back, the Leafs should have no trouble against the Bruins, especially given their current form.
