NHL insider shares optimism around Auston Matthews’ recovery amid ongoing injury treatment

Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews is dealing with an upper-body injury, concerning fans. Matthews missed Monday’s game against the Winnipeg Jets, marking his second consecutive absence after aggravating the issue.

On Tuesday, NHL insider Chris Johnston shared positive updates about Matthews on the "FirstUP" podcast.

"They do believe that they're at a point where they understand fully what he's dealing with because there's not any mystery about whether there's some other injury," Johnston said. [3:40]

I think they feel they have a good handle on what it is, and obviously he's receiving treatment for that. And there's just, there is the belief that he's going to get to a point where his most healthy moments of the season are still to come, versus already being in a rear view mirror."

Matthews has benefited from the NHL’s holiday break, giving him extra time to rest. However, his availability for Friday’s game against the Detroit Red Wings remains uncertain. Johnston suggested Matthews might sit out until next Tuesday to ensure he recovers completely.

"It's a little less clear for Auston Matthews, it depends on how he feels, if he gets to Thursday, to Friday, if he's comfortable," Johnston said. "... it might be prudent to sit out until next Tuesday, but we'll hear more about that in a couple days."

This season, Matthews has had a slower start, with 11 goals and 12 assists.

Coach Craig Berube's remarks on Auston Matthews's injury

Auston Matthews missed Saturday's game against the Islanders and was expected to be out of the lineup until after the holiday break. His injury worsened after a cross-check from Dennis Gilbert during a game against the Buffalo Sabres, which went unpenalized.

Regarding an update on Matthews' injury, Toronto Maple Leafs coach Craig Berube said:

"I'm not a doctor. I can't answer that question. I'm hoping here with the break coming up, he can get some relief, feel better, be ready to go, recharge. So that's really all I can say about it."

Matthews has already missed nine games this season due to an upper-body injury and even traveled to Germany for treatment. Despite his absence, the Leafs won seven games, with Mitch Marner stepping up.

Matthews' consistent play is crucial for the Maple Leafs as he is the captain and a major offensive powerhouse. Last season, he scored 69 goals and 107 points.

The Leafs, leading the Atlantic Division with a 21-12-2 record, hope Matthews uses the break to recover fully and contribute to their playoff push.