Auston Matthews injury update: NHL insider provides latest on Leafs captain’s return and it’s sooner than expected

Auston Matthews is once again hurt for the Toronto Maple Leafs. The captain spent several weeks off the ice earlier in the year and has found himself back there for the last few games. David Alter had the latest update on when Matthews is going to return, and it's surprisingly positive.

Alter said (2:00) on the First Up podcast:

"Yeah, I actually think he might actually return to the lineup on Jan. 2 in the second half of the home at home, just based on what I saw like. I know there's a lot of pessimism, but I watched most of his 30-minute session before practice, began working with the skill staff, and then joining the team for practice, and he didn't really seem out of place."

Alter added that it looked as if Matthews was healthy and could have played if the Maple Leafs needed him to. Instead, they exercised caution, which they've done with several injured stars.

The NHL insider believes the focus is to start the new year with a healthy Matthews, and so far, the player looks "fine" in Alter's estimation. He "wasn't laboring" and could be back for the first game in 2025.

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NHL insider not sure whether or not banged-up Auston Matthews will play in the 4 Nation Face-Off

The way things have gone this year, Auston Matthews can probably use all the time off he can get to heal up and remain healthy. He's now had two separate stints on the bench due to injuries.

Auston Matthews may not play the 4 Nation Face-Off (Imagn)

When the 4 Nation Face-Off comes around, some players will take two weeks to rest for the second half of the NHL season. Matthews would be a top player for Team USA, but David Alter isn't sure he's going to be on the team.

He said:

"I think there's going to be a deeper conversation just based on, you know, where they are and how he feels, and where things I don't remember when it's Feb. 6."

The Maple Leafs have been extremely cautious with Matthews, so they may just have him sit out during the break. Alter added:

"I just believe that with everything and managing something, and maybe using the defense, that this is something that he's going to deal with all season long, to some extent, that maybe you just err on the side of caution and use those two weeks to really fully get the rest."

Ultimately, Alter believes it will come down to how Auston Matthews feels and how strongly he wants to play for his country in the tournament.