The Toronto Maple Leafs’ hopes for a second-round playoff berth hinge on a crucial Game 7 matchup against the Boston Bruins. The return of star center Auston Matthews from injury has injected excitement into the Toronto fanbase, and NHL experts are weighing in on the potential impact of his presence.
NHL Network’s Twitter account [@NHLNetwork] captured comments from analysts Mike Kelly [@MikeKellyNHL], Tony Luftman [@TonyLuftman], and Ken Daneyko [@KenDaneykoMSG] on the NHL Tonight program.
"If he's in the lineup, even if it's in less of a role than we're used to seeing, it could be series and season-changing stuff." – @MikeKellyNHL #NHLTonight reacts to the news that Auston Matthews could return to Toronto's lineup for Game 7.@TonyLuftman | @KenDaneykoMSG pic.twitter.com/x3jt9TIguT
— NHL Network (@NHLNetwork) May 4, 2024
According to the tweet, Mike Kelly believes Matthews’ return, “even if it’s in less of a role than we’re used to seeing, it could be series and season-changing stuff.” This statement reflects the immense value Auston Matthews brings to the Maple Leafs’ lineup. Despite the potential limitations due to his recovery from injury, his presence on the ice could significantly boost the team’s morale and offensive potential.
Auston Matthews’ Absence and Impact
Auston Matthews missed Games 5 and 6 due to an undisclosed ailment or injury. His absence was keenly felt, especially considering his remarkable regular-season performance—leading the NHL with 69 goals. The Leafs managed to tie the series without him, but his return could be a game-changer.
The Samsonov-Woll Goalie Shuffle
In the crease, the Leafs faced a dilemma. Goaltender Joseph Woll stepped up in Auston Matthews’ absence, allowing just one goal in each of the past two games. However, Woll suffered an undisclosed injury in Game 6, leaving the netminding duties to Ilya Samsonov. Samsonov, who started the first four games of the series, aims to redeem himself after losing three of those contests.
Matthews’ Expected Role
Head coach Sheldon Keefe plans to ease Matthews back into the lineup. The 26-year-old center will likely start on the third line alongside Pontus Holmberg and Calle Jarnkrok. While it’s a departure from his usual top-six role, Matthews’ presence—even in a reduced capacity—could be a game-changer. His offensive prowess and ability to create scoring opportunities make him a threat regardless of his ice time.
As the puck drops for Game 7, all eyes will be on Matthews. Can he spark the Leafs’ offense and propel them to victory? Boston’s goalie Jeremy Swayman, with his impressive 1.60 goals-against average, stands in the way. It’s a clash of titans, and Matthews’ return adds an extra layer of drama to the showdown.
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