Auston Matthews' fate has been confirmed for game 5
The Toronto Maple Leafs face a crucial game five against the Boston Bruins tonight, aiming to avoid elimination. However, they'll be without their top center, Auston Matthews.
NHL insider Chris Johnston revealed that Matthews didn't arrive with the team at TD Garden, strongly suggesting he won't play tonight. Matthews has been battling illness and an undisclosed injury, which kept him out of the third period in the previous game.
He is not likely to play tonight. #LeafsForever
Johnston and Leafs reporter Jonas Siegel discussed Matthews's situation in an article for The Athletic, indicating he's unlikely to be fit for tonight's game.
Fellow NHL insider Emily Kaplan confirmed Matthews's absence, suggesting it's more than just a typical illness keeping him out of such a crucial match.
Team is saying illness, feels like something more significant to keep a star player out of a potential elimination game.
The Leafs will have to find a way to win without Matthews as they face a must-win situation against the Bruins.
As seen on hockeypatrolAuston Matthews out for game five against Boston Bruins
| POLL | ||
30 AVRIL | 792 ANSWERS Auston Matthews' fate has been confirmed for game 5 Do you think the Toronto Maple Leafs will keep their season alive tonight, or will the Boston Bruins end the series? | ||
| Toronto will win | 584 | 73.7 % |
| Boston will win | 208 | 26.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
