Auston Matthews – Toronto Maple Leafs Center will be sidelined until end of March with 6/8 weeks injury

Auston Matthews, the Toronto Maple Leafs’ star center and captain, has been sidelined due to an upper-body injury. This marks the second significant absence for Matthews this season, following a nine-game absence in November due to a similar injury. The current injury has kept him out of the lineup since December 20, 2024, and he is expected to return by the end of March 2025.

Matthews’ absence has been a considerable setback for the Maple Leafs. In his absence, the team has relied on players like Bobby McMann, who stepped up with two goals in a 2-1 victory over the New York Islanders on January 3, 2025.  Despite these efforts, the team has faced challenges in maintaining their performance without their top scorer.

The nature of Matthews’ injury has been a topic of discussion. While specifics have not been publicly disclosed, reports indicate that it is an upper-body injury, and Matthews has been managing it since the preseason. citeturn0search2 The team has been cautious with his recovery, ensuring he returns to full health before rejoining the lineup.

During Matthews’ absence, the Maple Leafs have demonstrated resilience. Players like McMann have stepped up, and the team has managed to secure victories, including the win against the Islanders. However, the return of Matthews is eagerly anticipated, as his scoring ability and leadership are crucial for the team’s success.

The Maple Leafs’ medical staff has been closely monitoring Matthews’ recovery. Given the recurrence of the injury, the team is taking a cautious approach to ensure that Matthews returns at full strength, minimizing the risk of further injury.

In summary, Auston Matthews’ injury has been a significant concern for the Toronto Maple Leafs. While the team has managed to cope in his absence, his return by the end of March 2025 is highly anticipated, as his presence is expected to bolster the team’s performance and leadership on the ice.