Game Day update on Leafs superstar Auston Matthews

Ahead of what is certainly a high-stakes Game 6 for the Maple Leafs tonight against the Boston Bruins, here's the latest on Auston Matthews, who forced to miss Game 5 with a mysterious ailment, originally believed to be an illness.

Matthews, joined by injured winger Bobby McMann, was spotted skating in Toronto earlier this morning ahead of Leafs practice, which is a good indicator that he's doing everything he can to try to be ready to return for Game 6.


Matthews was originally believed to be dealing with some sort of an illness, most commonly reported as food poisoning, but when the days continued to pass with Matthews not getting any better, it led to plenty of speculation, including comments from the NHL's premier insider, Elliotte Friedman, that Matthews might actually be dealing with an injury rather than an illness.


The doctors were in full control of Matthews' fate for Game 5, but ultimately, the reigning Rocket Richard Trophy winner was not cleared to play in Boston. Thankfully, a gutsy effort by Max Domi, John Tavares, Matthew Knies and Joseph Woll have bought the Leafs and Matthews a few extra days.

Tonight's Game 6 is do-or-die for the Leafs, just like Game 5. However, their track record at home has been abysmal in the playoffs over the last couple of seasons. The hope is that Matthews will be good to go tonight and that the Leafs can force a final and deciding Game 7 back in Boston.

The earliest report from TSN's Chris Johnston is that Matthews is not on the ice for practice and that it doesn't bode well for his status for Game 6. Of course, we'll have to wait to hear from Sheldon Keefe before we make any assumptions. After all, he did look to be moving pretty well.