Auston Matthews Set to Return for Maple Leafs Against Lightning
The Toronto Maple Leafs are gearing up for a crucial matchup against the Tampa Bay Lightning, and it looks like they’ll have their star forward, Auston Matthews, back on the ice. Head coach Craig Berube is optimistic about Matthews' return, though the final call will be made when Matthews rejoins the team.
Berube shared, "He’s riding a pretty good high right now with winning. We’ll evaluate that tomorrow and see where he’s at, and I’ll get a better feel when I talk to him here tonight." Matthews has been on a remarkable journey, fresh off a gold-medal win with Team USA at the Milan Cortina Olympics.
The victory, a thrilling 2-1 overtime win against Canada, marked the first Olympic gold for the U.S. men's hockey team since the historic 1980 triumph. Matthews was instrumental in this success, tallying three goals and seven points throughout the Games.
Following their Olympic glory, the American team celebrated at the White House with President Donald Trump. Now, Matthews is set to rejoin the Leafs as they face the Lightning on Wednesday.
This season, Matthews has been a powerhouse for Toronto, with 26 goals and 48 points in 51 games. The Maple Leafs are in a tight playoff race, currently tied for sixth in the Atlantic Division with a 27-21-9 record. They’re six points shy of the Boston Bruins, who hold the final playoff spot in the East.
As the NHL resumes with eight games on Wednesday, all eyes will be on Matthews and the Leafs as they aim to climb the standings and secure a playoff berth.