The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/toronto-maple-leafs">Toronto Maple Leafs</a> enter Thursday’s game against the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-hurricanes">Carolina Hurricanes</a> on the heels of a strong 4–1 win over the defending champion Florida Panthers. While the team appears to be building momentum, Auston Matthews continues navigating the early stages of his return from a recent injury.



The Toronto captain has played only four games since coming back and is still working to regain rhythm and full game speed. Speaking with The Athletic, he noted that while his start has been slower than expected, he sees gradual progress in multiple aspects of his game.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews">Matthews</a> acknowledged that his performance has yet to reach the standard he expects, but he emphasized that his focus remains on helping the team win as he works toward full form.



<h2>Matthews evaluates his return</h2>



Matthews said he is encouraged by how his overall play is trending, even if he feels more is required. “I think I’m getting there,” he noted. “I’d certainly like to do more and certainly would like to get to another level. But I think it’s turning in the right direction.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251204_BUS_539081_auston-mattews_64222e77.webp&amp;width=650&amp;height=365" alt="Auston Matthews" class="wp-image-506915" width="650" height="365" sizes="(max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px"></figure><figcaption>Auston Matthews #34 of the Maple Leafs celebrates a goal with teammates. Chris Tanouye/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



He reiterated that personal production matters, but only within the context of team success. “In the end, I want to produce, I want to score and do all those things,” he said. “But that doesn’t matter if we’re not winning.”


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<h2>Shot strength improving after injury</h2>



Matthews revealed that his shot is steadily regaining power after the injury, describing the early days of his return as challenging. “Certainly, the first couple of sessions back on the ice, it didn’t feel amazing,” he explained. “Now it definitely feels good… Just gotta work on my accuracy a little bit.”



<h2>What’s next for the Maple Leafs?</h2>



The Maple Leafs will look for continued progress from their captain as they take on Carolina at 7 p.m. ET. With his confidence and timing improving, Matthews hopes his offensive surge is close.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="6931b78ae2d53b59fb2f043d" data-title="How important is it for the Maple Leafs that Auston Matthews regains full form this season?" data-options="4"></div>

NHL News: Maple Leafs star Auston Matthews breaks silence on slow start after injury return ahead of Hurricanes clash

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NHL News: Maple Leafs star Auston Matthews breaks silence on slow start after injury return ahead of Hurricanes clash - Bolavip US

Maple Leafs star Matthews breaks silence on slow start after injury return ahead of Hurricanes clash

miniaturas

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/toronto-maple-leafs">Toronto Maple Leafs</a> have struggled to find consistency through the first two months of the 2026 NHL season. Despite high expectations, the team has hovered near the bottom of the Eastern Conference, leaving fans frustrated and searching for answers. Central to the debate has been the performance of the Leafs’ captain and star forward, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews">Auston Matthews</a>.



Through 20 games, Matthews has registered 10 goals and seven assists, totaling 17 points—a significant drop from what many expected of the Arizona native. His absence at times due to injury has not helped, but there is growing concern that even when healthy, Matthews has not produced at the level needed to lead the team effectively.



Former Maple Leafs defenseman Carlo Colaiacovo weighed in on the situation during Tuesday’s edition of Daily Faceoff LIVE. “My concern about him is not being the player that everybody expects him to be. You know, they made the transition last year, giving him the captaincy…this was supposed to be his team leading the way. Production-wise, it’s been a struggle for him to do that,” Colaiacovo explained.



<h2>Can Auston Matthews turn things around for Toronto?</h2>



Colaiacovo expanded on that concern, stressing the standard Matthews is expected to meet. “If Auston Matthews is supposed to be the captain of this team and one of the top five to ten players in this league, he’s got to find it within himself to lead on his own.“



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251203_BUS_538331_auston-matthews-leafs_fd3440b3.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-538364"></figure><figcaption>&nbsp;Auston Matthews #34 of the Maple Leafs celebrates with teammates on the bench after scoring a goal. Justin Berl/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



He added: “It’s been a struggle. When your team loses, it’s a struggle for everybody. But William Nylander is finding a way. Auston Matthews needs to find a way…good back or not, he has to put the team on his back and lead them.” 


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Matthews’ early-season performance has left the Leafs with a mix of concern and hope. While injuries and external factors may have played a role, the team’s reliance on its captain to elevate play remains a key story as Toronto looks to climb the standings. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Matthews can regain form and lead by example in the coming months.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="6930501de2d53b59fb2f0412" data-title="Is Auston Matthews underperforming for the Maple Leafs this season?" data-options="3"></div>

Former Maple Leafs defenseman sends clear warning on Auston Matthews’ slow start

Craig Berube drops very sincere update on Auston Matthews’ Leafs teammate: ‘It didn’t go the way we thought’

NHL News: Mike Sullivan sends J.T. Miller, NY Rangers bold message after comeback win against Stars

NHL News: Former Maple Leafs defenseman delivers candid warning on Auston Matthews' underwhelming start - Bolavip US

Former Maple Leafs defenseman delivers candid warning on Matthews' underwhelming start

NHL News: Former Maple Leafs defenseman delivers candid warning on Auston Matthews’ underwhelming start

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews">Auston Matthews</a> and the Toronto Maple Leafs have struggled to hit the ground running in the 2025-26 NHL season. Entering Craig Berube’s second year in Hogtown, the Buds have been affected by inconsistency and several injuries. Now, the Leafs might be wise to listen to Pat Maroon’s latest comment on their head coach.



Maroon retired from the NHL during the 2024–25 season. After spending over 15 years in the league, he walked away a three-time Stanley Cup champion. For a player selected in the sixth round of the 2007 Draft, it’s safe to say Maroon exceeded all expectations. He hoisted his first <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/stanley-cup">Stanley Cup</a> with the St. Louis Blues under Berube’s guidance. Now, the retired winger has shared a story from his time with Berube, offering a reminder for Matthews and the Maple Leafs.



“Berube he just got the message clear to us. He told us ‘if you don’t want to play the right way, you can sit in the stands and watch‘. To me that was a good message,” Maroon reminisced about his time with Berube on the Blues, via TSN OverDrive. “We just had to put it together.”



Maroon’s anecdote with Berube could serve as a great reminder for Matthews and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/toronto-maple-leafs">Leafs</a> on who they are dealing with in Berube. Moreover, as Toronto struggles to establish itself in the NHL, St. Louis’ miraculous run in the 2018-19 season could serve as inspiration.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251202_BUS_537879_pat-maroon_9ae333f4.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-538027"></figure><figcaption>Pat Maroon during a game with the Chicago Blackhawks</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Maroon explains what it means to play the right way</h2>



It may sound cliché, but the proof is in the pudding in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl">NHL</a>. In order to win in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, teams often oversimplify their games. The Leafs, however, may have done just the opposite over the last few years.


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“To me, [playing the right way means] your stars are willing to live to fight another day,” Maroon explained. “Willing to chip pucks into an area where a linemate can go get it, willing to grind teams down. I think that’s what Berube means by that. To me, it’s a simple way of playing. Your star players are making an adjustment to their game for the team, so it’s a trickle-down effect.“



<h2>Sets example of Florida</h2>



If there’s one team the Maple Leafs can’t stand in the Atlantic Division lately, it’s the Florida Panthers. The Leafs and Cats have met twice in the Stanley Cup Playoffs over the last three seasons, with the team from Sunrise prevailing both times. Still, as much as Matthews and company may despise the Panthers, they could learn a lesson or two from them. Maroon certainly thinks so.



“It’s the difference between the teams that have been winning. Look at [the Florida Panthers], all they do is get pucks back and wear you down,” Maroon stated. “Do they have stars on the team? Yeah, but do they have the [Nathan] MacKinnons, [Nikita] Kucherovs, or [Auston] Matthews? No, they don’t, but all those guys are buying in. That’s why they’ve had success. So [it’s about]: are you willing to buy in? Or are you just going to go out there, put your stick on the ice, and say ‘I’m all by myself’?”

NHL News: Former 3x Stanley Cup champ makes something clear to Auston Matthews, Maple Leafs on Craig Berube

NHL News: Former 3x Stanley Cup champ makes something clear to Auston Matthews, Maple Leafs on Craig Berube - Bolavip US

Former 3x Stanley Cup champ makes something clear to Matthews, Leafs on Berube

Craig Berube delivered a straightforward update on Brandon Carlo, as <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews">Auston Matthews</a> and the Toronto Maple Leafs vie to finish their road trip in strong fashion in the 2025-26 NHL season.



After confirming <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/craig-berube-confirms-auston-matthews-teammate-has-left-maple-leafs-road-trip-with-injury-setback">Carlo has left the Maple Leafs’ road trip with an injury setback</a>, Berube provided an update on where the 29-year-old stands. Matthews and the Buds will be without the experienced defenseman as they close out their six-game road trip in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl">NHL</a>.



“He has to get something done. It didn’t go the way we thought,” Berube commented on Carlo’s health, as reported by TSN’s Mark Masters on X.



<h2>Injury-riddled season</h2>



So far, Carlo’s time in The Six has been greatly affected by physical setbacks. Through the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/toronto-maple-leafs">Maple Leafs</a>’ first 25 games of the 2025-26 campaign, Carlo has appeared in 18 outings—missing seven games.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251202_BUS_537895_brandon-carlo-1_3b295c44.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-497789" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Brandon Carlo of the Toronto Maple Leafs before a game</figcaption></figure>



Berube admitted the blueliner will “probably” require surgery. With Carlo set to undergo medical procedures, the games missed total is expected to rise for the former second-round selection in the 2015 NHL entry Draft.


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<h2>Berube provides update on Anthony Stolarz</h2>



Needless to say, Matthews and the Maple Leafs have seen the injury bug tear through their locker room. With injuries to key players, the Buds have had to weather the storm to stay afloat in the NHL.



Now, Berube voiced a blunt comment on goaltender Anthony Stolarz, who has yet to return to the ice. “No real improvement there,” Berube briefly admitted about the Stanley Cup-winning netminder.

Craig Berube drops very sincere update on Auston Matthews’ Leafs teammate: 'It didn’t go the way we thought' - Bolavip US

Berube drops very sincere update on Matthews’ Leafs teammate: 'It didn't go the way we thought'

Not much has gone <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews">Auston Matthews</a> and the Toronto Maple Leafs’ way in the 2025-26 NHL season. In the middle of a crucial road trip, bad news have been confirmed by head coach Craig Berube on one veteran on the team.



Brandon Carlo’s production has been greatly hindered by availability and physical issues this <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl">NHL</a> season. So far, the defenseman has appeared in 18 games, missing 7 of the Leafs’ 25 outings in the 2025–26 campaign. However, the absences tally will only rise, as Berube confirmed Carlo won’t join Matthews and company to close out the Buds’ six-game road trip.



“Craig Berube says Brandon Carlo has suffered a setback in his recovery from a lower-body injury and returned to Toronto,” as reported by TSN’s Mark Masters on X (formerly Twitter).



<h2>Carlo’s stats in the 2025-26 NHL season</h2>



Between the injury-riddled year he has had and the lackluster numbers on his statsheet, it’s safe to say Carlo’s time in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/toronto-maple-leafs">Toronto</a> has been far from remarkable. If one were to ask fans around The Six, many would like a refund. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251201_BUS_537555_brandon-carlo-1_0e24c7d8.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-497789" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Brandon Carlo before a game</figcaption></figure>



Since being traded to the Maple Leafs, the defenseman has appeared in 38 games, yet he has still not scored his first goal for the Buds. The former Boston Bruin has recorded 5 assists in his first months in Hogtown—three in the 2024–25 campaign and two in the current season.


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<h2>Carlo will miss two crucial meetings</h2>



Just like Berube noted, Carlo returned on his own to Toronto, while Matthews and the Leafs wrap up a character-testing six-game road trip. As Carlo sees a specialist and awaits a clear update on his health, the Buds must end the trip on a strong note. 



Up next, the Maple Leafs will take on the reigning <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/nhl-teams-back-to-back-stanley-cup-wins" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">back-to-back Stanley Cup champions</a>, the Florida Panthers, at Amerant Bank Arena. Hoping to ride the wave of their latest 7–2 win over the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Leafs can’t afford a misstep against their injury-riddled divisional opponents. To close out their long stay away from home, the Buds will travel to Raleigh, where the 16-7-2 Carolina Hurricanes await.

Auston Matthews teammate leaves Maple Leafs' road trip with injury setback

Craig Berube confirms Auston Matthews teammate has left Maple Leafs' road trip with injury setback - Bolavip US

Berube confirms Matthews teammate has left Maple Leafs' road trip with injury setback

Craig Berube confirms Auston Matthews teammate has left Maple Leafs’ road trip with injury setback

One man’s trash can indeed become another man’s treasure. With <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Auston Matthews</a> returning to the lineup, the Toronto Maple Leafs deemed it best to place Sammy Blais on waivers. In doing so, they may have handed a gift to their biggest rivals in the NHL. An overlooked and frustrated forward has now landed straight into the lap of the Montreal Canadiens.



Insider Elliotte Friedman was the first to report the news of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/montreal-canadiens" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Montreal</a> claiming Sammy Blais off waivers in the 2025-26 NHL season. Now, the Stanley Cup-winning forward will be joining his fourth team in the league. 



Selected with a sixth round pick in the 2014 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NHL</a> entry Draft, Blais was a part of the St. Louis Blues’ Stanley Cup-winning roster in the 2018-19 season. Blais appeared in 15 postseason games, registering three points (1G, 2A). His numbers are far from mind-blowing, but his name is still etched in immortality on Lord Stanley.



<h2>Back with the Canadiens</h2>



Blais signed with the Canadiens as an unrestricted free agent over the summer, but he never even made his season debut in Montreal before being placed on waivers. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1082" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251127_BUS_534943_sammy-blais-1_1bbabe4d.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1082" alt="" class="wp-image-535021"></figure><figcaption>Sammy Blais hoists the Stanley Cup </figcaption></figure>



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/toronto-maple-leafs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Maple Leafs</a> scooped him up on October 6th—and now the story has come full circle. Though the Canadiens and Maple Leafs feature one of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/top-greatest-rivalries-in-nhl-history" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biggest rivalries in the NHL</a>, it looks as if they are now playing a game of hot potato with Blais, shuffling him from one address to another.


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<h2>Headed to the AHL</h2>



Immediately after announcing the latest roster move, the Canadiens confirmed Blais will be reporting to the AHL affiliate, Laval Rocket. It goes to show how Blais is widely regarded around the league: as a minor-league caliber talent. 



When the Buds placed Blais on waivers, they hoped for him to clear it and consequently be allowed to be sent down to the AHL. One way or the other, the 29-year-old winger is in the minors. 



<h3>Potential revenge game for Blais</h3>



However, the Habs may call him up at some stage of the 2025-26 NHL season. If they do so before December 6, Blais could be up for a revenge game when the Canadiens visit Matthews and the Maple Leafs at Scotiabank Arena.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="6928b73ee2d53b59fb2f0377" data-title="Should Montreal give Blais a chance in the NHL?" data-options="3"></div>

Montreal Canadiens claim Stanley Cup champ, former Toronto Maple Leafs veteran off waivers

NHL News: After Maple Leafs cut ties, Canadiens confirm return of former Auston Matthews teammate, Stanley Cup champion - Bolavip US

After Leafs cut ties, Habs confirm return of former Matthews teammate

NHL News: After Maple Leafs cut ties, Canadiens confirm return of former Auston Matthews teammate, Stanley Cup champion

After missing five games with a lower-body injury, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews">Auston Matthews</a> returned to the Toronto Maple Leafs lineup, helping lead a dramatic 2-1 overtime win against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Wednesday. William Nylander scored the decisive goal with 20 seconds left in OT, marking his 15th career overtime goal—the most in franchise history.



The game saw several key moments as Toronto clawed back from a late deficit. Easton Cowan tied the game with 3:17 remaining in the third period on a sharp-angled shot set up by Nylander, sending the match into overtime.



Matthews reflected on getting back on the ice: “I felt good. The first half was just about finding my legs, but as the game went on, I felt more and more comfortable,” he said, according to <a href="https://www.nhl.com/news/toronto-maple-leafs-columbus-blue-jackets-game-recap-november-26-2025" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NHL.com</a>. Nylander added, “We both get the chance to play out there in OT. He could’ve scored too today.”



<h2>How Nylander sealed the comeback in overtime</h2>



In overtime, Nylander collected a loose puck in the slot and fired a clean wrist shot past Jet Greaves to secure the victory. Goaltender Joseph Woll made 35 saves to keep Toronto in contention, while Columbus goalie Greaves stopped 22 shots in a losing effort.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">IF THERE&apos;S A WILL, THERE&apos;S A WAY! 🤩 William Nylander is the <a href="https://twitter.com/Energizer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Energizer</a> overtime hero for the <a href="https://twitter.com/MapleLeafs?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MapleLeafs</a>! <a href="https://t.co/UX4erUaO6C">pic.twitter.com/UX4erUaO6C</a>— NHL (@NHL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NHL/status/1993877022515356040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/columbus-blue-jackets">Blue Jackets</a> had held a lead for much of the game, with Zach Werenski scoring late in the third period, but continued to struggle with late-game execution.


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<h2>Returning stars make immediate impact for Maple Leafs</h2>



Matthews, Matthew Knies, and Nicolas Roy all contributed upon returning to the lineup. Matthews logged 24:35 with three shots, one hit, and a blocked shot. Knies had a secondary assist on the OT winner, two shots, and three hits, while Roy added a shot and two hits in limited ice time. 


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="6928a0fde2d53b59fb2f0373" data-title="Who had the biggest impact in Toronto’s OT win over Columbus?" data-options="4"></div>


The victory highlighted Toronto’s depth and resilience, with returning players helping stabilize the lineup. The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/toronto-maple-leafs">Maple Leafs</a> now look to build momentum as they push toward climbing above .500 in the Eastern Conference.

NHL News: Maple Leafs’ Auston Matthews breaks silence after return in OT win vs Blue Jackets

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NHL News: Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews breaks silence after return in OT win vs Blue Jackets - Bolavip US

Maple Leafs' Matthews breaks silence after return in OT win vs Blue Jackets

Making his return to the lineup after a multi-week absence, Toronto Maple Leafs star <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Auston Matthews</a> voiced an honest message. Much has been said about the hit he took from Boston Bruins defenseman Nikita Zadorov, but the forward in Hogtown has now addressed the controversial incident in the 2025-26 NHL campaign.



Whenever the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/toronto-maple-leafs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Maple Leafs</a> and Bruins meet on the ice, tempers flare. That was the case when Matthews and the Buds lost 5-3 to the Spoked B at the TD Garden. However, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-bruins" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bruins</a> might have crossed a line when Zadorov landed a big hit on Matthews, sending the visiting captain head-first against the boards.



Due to the aggressive hit, Matthews was sidelined for two weeks, effectively missing five games for the Maple Leafs in the current <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NHL</a> season. Now that he’s back in the lineup, it didn’t take long for the captain to be asked about Zadorov’s hit. On that note, Matthews delivered a very sincere statement.



“I’m three feet away from the boards and he hits me in the numbers. I know his game, he likes to play hard, and you respect that. Maybe I could’ve put myself in a better position knowing he’s out there,” Matthews admitted per TSN’s Mark Masters on X (formerly Twitter).



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251126_BUS_534175_auston-matthews-2-1_dc6028a0.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Auston Matthews warming up before a game" class="wp-image-513391" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Auston Matthews #34 of the Toronto Maple Leafs against the Montreal Canadiens</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Matthews speaks on his physical health</h2>



“It’s been a tough couple weeks, but I think over the last four, five days or so, skating, practicing, started to feel really good day after day. Stacked some positive momentum and feel like I’m ready to go,” Matthews stated.


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No player in the NHL ever wants to miss time. For Matthews, being sidelined cuts even deeper. As the face of a franchise burdened with sky-high expectations, he carries the weight of a city starving for its first Stanley Cup in over half a century. Toronto can’t afford to wait much longer—and all eyes remain fixed on Matthews to lead the way.



<h2>Matthews misses games for 9th straight season</h2>



Matthews appeared in all 82 games during his rookie year in the 2016-17 NHL campaign. However, he hasn’t recorded a full-season since. Instead, the Leafs’ captain has missed games year after year. Since the 2017-18 season, Matthews has now missed a total of 88 games for the Maple Leafs.

Leafs News: Auston Matthews sets record straight on injury hit with bold message to Bruins’ Nikita Zadorov

Leafs News: Auston Matthews sets record straight on injury hit with bold message to Bruins’ Nikita Zadorov - Bolavip US

Matthews sets the record straight with bold message on hit from Bruins’ Zadorov

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/toronto-maple-leafs">Toronto Maple Leafs</a> are preparing for a crucial five-game road trip, and the potential return of key forwards could give the team a significant boost. Captain Auston Matthews, along with Matthew Knies and Nicolas Roy, practiced for a second straight day on Tuesday as the team traveled. The trio has missed games recently due to injuries, raising questions about how their reintegration could impact the lineup.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews">Matthews</a>, sidelined for the past five games with a lower-body injury, has been a central figure for Toronto this season. Knies has missed three games with a lower-body issue, while Roy has been out for three contests due to an upper-body injury. Their participation in practice signals progress, but the team remains cautious.



Coach Craig Berube emphasized the importance of getting all three forwards back in sync. “It’s good that they were out there and finished practice and went through all the drills,” he said, according to <a href="https://www.nhl.com/news/nhl-status-report-news-and-notes-november-25-2025" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NHL.com.</a> 



He also added: “So yes, that’s where they’re at. So that means yes, maybe tomorrow (today).” The Maple Leafs hope their return could help stabilize the roster and provide a spark as the team faces the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/columbus-blue-jackets">Columbus Blue Jackets</a> on Wednesday.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251126_BUS_533878_auston-matthews-2_6c6ab438.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-533901"></figure><figcaption>Auston Matthews #34 of the Toronto Maple Leafs celebrates a goal with teammates. Bruce Bennett/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Could Matthews play against Columbus?</h2>



All three forwards could be available for Wednesday’s matchup, with Matthews’ participation being the most closely watched. While none of the players are guaranteed to play, their practice sessions indicate that the coaching staff is preparing to reinsert them into the lineup if they are fully cleared.


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<h2>How the Maple Leafs might adjust their lines</h2>



If Matthews, Knies, and Roy return, the Maple Leafs are expected to tweak their forward lines to maximize offensive efficiency. Toronto will aim to balance scoring potential with defensive stability, ensuring the team can compete effectively after a challenging stretch of recent games.


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Maple Leafs’ Berube shares key injury updates on Matthews, Knies, and Roy

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NHL News: Maple Leafs' Craig Berube provides crucial update on injured stars Auston Matthews, Matthew Knies, and Nicolas Roy - Bolavip US

Maple Leafs' Berube provides crucial update on injured stars Matthews, Knies, and Roy

NHL News: Maple Leafs’ Craig Berube provides crucial update on injured stars Auston Matthews, Matthew Knies, and Nicolas Roy

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/toronto-maple-leafs">Toronto Maple Leafs</a> are enduring one of their roughest starts in years, sitting at the bottom of both the Atlantic Division and the Eastern Conference with a 9-10-3 record. A stretch of seven losses in eight games has left the team in crisis, and questions about leadership and accountability are growing louder with each passing game.



Captain <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews">Auston Matthews</a>, sidelined for the last five games with a lower-body injury, has returned to practice, hinting that he could be back in the lineup soon. His absence coincided with the team’s ongoing struggles, putting him squarely in the spotlight as fans and analysts assess the state of the Maple Leafs.



Off the ice, commentary from former champions has sharpened the narrative. Two-time Stanley Cup winner Kris Versteeg has delivered a blunt assessment of what Matthews must do to help the club reverse its fortunes.



<h2>Versteeg on Matthews’ role</h2>



Versteeg, who won the Stanley Cup with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/chicago-blackhawks">Chicago Blackhawks</a> in 2010 and 2015, spoke on the “JD Bunkis” Podcast about the expectations for Matthews. “Matthews coming back… if you’re Matthews, you’re a player, this is kinda a moment that you got put the team on your back and take them back,” he said. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251125_BUS_533517_auston-matthews-1_e3fce5f6.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-533520"></figure><figcaption>Auston Matthews of the Maple Leafs is checked by William Carrier of the Hurricanes. Bruce Bennett/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



Even with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mitch-marner">Mitch Marner</a> traded to the Vegas Golden Knights, Versteeg believes Matthews has the potential to carry the team. “For him to come in and play his best hockey ever, put the team on his back and start to show when he is engaged, when he is top of the game, he can carry a hockey club,” Versteeg added.


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<h2>Maple Leafs’ challenges beyond Matthews</h2>



While Matthews is the focus of leadership expectations, the team faces deeper structural issues. Marner’s departure has left a void in the lineup, but analysts argue the Leafs’ struggles extend beyond a single player. The roster lacks cohesion and a defined identity, complicating the path to recovery even once Matthews returns.



<h2>Looking ahead</h2>



Toronto will need both leadership and performance from Matthews if it hopes to climb out of the Eastern Conference basement. As the team prepares for its next matchup, all eyes will be on the captain to see if he can translate Versteeg’s call to action into results on the ice.


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NHL News: Two-time Stanley Cup champion makes big request for Auston Matthews to step up amid Maple Leafs' struggles - Bolavip US

Two-time Stanley Cup champion makes big request for Matthews to step up amid Maple Leafs' struggles

NHL News: Two-time Stanley Cup champion makes big request for Auston Matthews to step up amid Maple Leafs’ struggles

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews">Auston Matthews</a> remains sidelined with a lower-body injury, extending his absence from the Toronto Maple Leafs lineup beyond a week. The captain resumed on-ice skating this week for the first time since sustaining the injury in the Nov. 11 game against the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-bruins">Boston Bruins</a>, but he will not play against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Thursday.



Head coach Craig Berube offered an update hours before the matchup, highlighting Matthews’ progress while confirming that a return is not imminent. The team is also managing several other injuries to key players.



“Matthews is coming along,” Berube told the media following Wednesday’s practice. “He’s improving. Obviously, he won’t play tomorrow (today).” Matthews originally left the Boston contest midway through the second period after a hit from Nikita Zadorov, though Berube later clarified the injury occurred earlier in the game.



<h2>Matthews’ recovery and team context</h2>



The 28-year-old forward has recorded nine goals and five assists in 17 games this season. Last year, he was limited to 33 goals in 67 games due to an upper-body issue, making his availability critical for Toronto’s offensive output.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251120_BUS_530744_auston-matthews_3605d634.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-530755"></figure><figcaption>Auston Matthews #34 of the Toronto Maple Leafs warms up prior to a game. Bruce Bennett/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



General manager Brad Treliving echoed Berube’s update, emphasizing ongoing progress without committing to a return date. “I would suspect Thursday’s probably not a possibility. I don’t anticipate too, too long,” Treliving said.


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In addition to Matthews, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/toronto-maple-leafs">Maple Leafs</a> are navigating absences for Matthew Knies, Brandon Carlo, Chris Tanev, Anthony Stolarz, and Nicolas Roy. Berube noted that Scott Laughton may be available, while Sammy Blais appears cleared after leaving Tuesday’s win over the St. Louis Blues following a heavy hit. 



<h2>What’s next for the Maple Leafs?</h2>



The Maple Leafs will host the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/columbus-blue-jackets">Blue Jackets</a> on Thursday, with puck drop set for 7:00 p.m. ET. As they wrap up the homestand, Toronto will aim to manage a depleted lineup. Final roster decisions are expected closer to game time.


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Within the next week" data-options="2"></div>

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NHL News: Maple Leafs coach Craig Berube provides Auston Matthews injury update ahead of Blue Jackets game - Bolavip US

Maple Leafs coach Berube provides Matthews injury update ahead of Blue Jackets game

When it rains, it pours. If watching <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Auston Matthews</a> go down with an injury wasn’t stressful enough for the Toronto Maple Leafs, goaltender Anthony Stolarz is feared to be sidelined, as well. On that note, a goaltender in the organization could be trending to make his NHL debut.



Both Matthews and Stolarz exited the Leafs’ second game against the Boston Bruins in the 2025-26 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NHL</a> season. Though losing 5-3 to the Spoked B is never a pleasant sight in Toronto, losing its captain and starting goaltender far outweighed the final score.



After the latest injury update, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/auston-matthews-injury-update-maple-leafs-find-out-for-how-long-the-star-will-be-out" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Toronto found out for how long it will be without Matthews</a>. However, drama doesn’t end there, as the Buds announced a goaltending move, which suggests Stolarz could be out for some time, too.



“The Maple Leafs have recalled goalie Artur Akhtyamov,” as the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/toronto-maple-leafs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Maple Leafs</a>’ Public Relations Department confirmed on X (formerly Twitter), via @LeafsPR. On another note, the organization announced forward Scott Laughton has been placed on injured reserve (IR), retroactive to Nov. 8.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251113_BUS_525927_Anthony-Stolarz-41-of-the-Toronto-Maple-Leafs-gets-set-for-play-to-resume-against-the-Pittsburgh-Pe-1024x576_86b9d174.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Anthony Stolarz during a stoppage in play" class="wp-image-393404" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Anthony Stolarz #41 of the Toronto Maple Leafs</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Akhtyamov’s background with Matthews’ Maple Leafs</h2>



Born in Kazan, Russia, on Halloween of 2001, Akhtyamov was selected with a fourth-round pick in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft by the Maple Leafs. However, the left-handed netminder has yet to make his first appearance in the big leagues. Still, as he’s recalled from the AHL affiliate, the Toronto Marlies, this won’t exactly be Akhtyamov’s first rodeo.


 

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The 24-year-old goalie had been recalled by the Maple Leafs in April 2025. Although Craig Berube and his staff didn’t give him the nod in net for the Buds, he did spent some time with Matthews and company. As he joins practices with the Leafs, Akhtyamov won’t be a complete stranger at Ford Performance Centre in Etobicoke, Ontario.



<h2>What does this move imply for Toronto?</h2>



On the one hand, recalling Akhtyamov signals that the Maple Leafs fear—or already know—that Stolarz isn’t fit to dress for their upcoming NHL regular-season matchups. Moreover, it could also suggest that Joseph Woll is still a ways off from returning to the lineup. 



The situation in Toronto is far from encouraging. In the blink of an eye, rookie goaltender Dennis Hildeby has become the number one option for Berube and his staff. Next in line, a debutant in Akhtyamov emerges. With the Maple Leafs desperate to snap their current three-game losing streak, the climb has only gotten steeper. The Buds will have to end the hex without their captain and with a goaltending tandem that combines for fewer than 10 NHL career appearances—nine, to be precise.


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Toronto Maple Leafs confirm bad news for Auston Matthews, teammates with goaltending call-up

NHL News: Bruins’ Nikita Zadorov breaks silence after Maple Leafs’ Auston Matthews leaves game following hit

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Besides Matthews’ injury, Maple Leafs announce roster move to aid pivotal position

NHL News: Besides Auston Matthews’ injury, Maple Leafs announce roster move to aid pivotal position

The Toronto Maple Leafs are bracing for another setback as star forward <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews">Auston Matthews</a> deals with a lower-body injury. The injury adds to a growing list of concerns for the team, which has faced multiple key absences in recent weeks.



According to insider Chris Johnston, Matthews is expected to be sidelined for at least a week as he recovers and the team manages his rehabilitation. The timing comes at a critical stretch of the season, making every game without the center more consequential.



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/toronto-maple-leafs">Maple Leafs</a> will now look to adjust their lineup and ice time distribution to compensate for Matthews’ absence, relying on depth players to maintain offensive production while the star recovers.



<h2>How long will Matthews be out?</h2>



According to a report from NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, “Auston Matthews’ injury is considered not serious, but he will miss a couple of games.” The Maple Leafs are managing his recovery carefully, aiming to return him to the lineup fully healthy while minimizing risk during this crucial stretch of the season.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="501" height="178" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251113_BUS_525837_maple_72da1c56.webp&amp;width=501&amp;height=178" alt="" class="wp-image-525841"></figure></figure>



<h2>How Toronto will adjust without Matthews</h2>


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The Maple Leafs are expected to rely on William Nylander and John Tavares to shoulder the offensive load in Auston Matthews’ absence. Nick Robertson has been promoted to the top line alongside Matthew Knies, while head coach Craig Berube has made several lineup adjustments to maintain both scoring momentum and defensive stability.


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Auston Matthews injury update: Maple Leafs find out for how long the star will be out - Bolavip US

Matthews injury update: Maple Leafs find out for how long the star will be out

In addition to a deflating loss against the Boston Bruins, Toronto Maple Leafs fans skipped another beat when <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Auston Matthews</a> exited the game with an injury. Now, head coach Craig Berube delivered a straightforward message on the captain’s status.



Nothing went the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/toronto-maple-leafs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Maple Leafs</a>’ way during their visit to the Bruins in the 2025-26 NHL season. If losing to the despised rivals from Beantown wasn’t disheartening enough, the Buds watched Auston Matthews and Anthony Stolarz go down with injuries.



However, the Maple Leafs have no time to dwell on their loss. Riding a three-game losing streak in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NHL</a>, Berube knows his team must lick its wounds quickly and get ready to jump back into the rodeo. When asked for an update on Matthews, the head coach was candid about his uncertainty.



“Right now, it is lower-body. We will just see tomorrow how he is,” Berube admitted on Matthews’ health, via Heavy. “I don’t know exactly. I really can’t give you guys a timeline or tell you how serious it is right now. I’m not sure when he got hurt, to be honest with you.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251112_BUS_525299_berube-1-1024x576_0635b92a.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Craig Berube" class="wp-image-488637" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Maple Leafs coach Craig Berube speaks with the media.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Not enough</h2>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/nhl-news-bruins-nikita-zadorov-breaks-silence-after-maple-leafs-auston-matthews-leaves-game-following-hit">Matthews was forced to leave the game after taking a hit on the back from defenseman Nikita Zadorov</a>. The Maple Leafs’ captain landed head-first against the boards, which raised concerns about a potential head injury. However, Berube clarified the issue was more likely a lower-body setback. While a concussion might be ruled out, Berube is still unpleased with the NHL’s officiating crew, as the hit went uncalled for.


 

 

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“I think it is a penalty, personally. But I am not the referee,” Berube vividly stated postgame. “I don’t like it. I don’t like the hit. He was in a vulnerable position. There is nothing I can do about it.”



<h2>Crisis</h2>



With or without Matthews, the Maple Leafs must flip the page immediately. Having lost three straight games and falling behind in the Atlantic Division, Berube and company must get back in the win column. Up next, the Buds will take on the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, November 13.



Toronto is up for a big challenge. Stolarz’s injury limits the Leafs’ options in net even further. With Joseph Woll out on personal leave, the Buds are left with no other goaltender than rookie Dennis Hildeby. The Kings enter the game riding a five-game road winning streak. Regardless, Berube’s team can’t make excuses and must end the losing hex to regain momentum in the NHL.


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NHL News: Maple Leafs HC Craig Berube rectifies Auston Matthews’ injury situation with clear statement - Bolavip US

Leafs HC Berube rectifies Matthews’ injury with clear statement

The Toronto Maple Leafs were hit with a double setback during Tuesday night’s game against the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-bruins">Boston Bruins</a>, as captain <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews">Auston Matthews</a>, who has 14 points in 16 games this NHL season, including 9 goals and 5 assists, left the ice following a hit from Bruins defenseman Nikita Zadorov. 



Matthews exited during a TV timeout in the second period while Toronto was down 4-1, leaving the team to evaluate. Goaltender Anthony Stolarz was also removed from the game, leaving Dennis Hildeby to finish in net.



Toronto’s official PR account confirmed that both Matthews and Stolarz were dealing with upper-body injuries, but no further details were immediately available.



“This marks the second time a Maple Leafs player has left the game due to a Zadorov hit,” noted The Hockey News reporter David Alter. “Forward Scott Laughton also left the ice after being hit by Zadorov in Saturday’s game against Boston.”



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Auston Matthews went to the locker room after taking a hit by Nikita Zadorov. <a href="https://t.co/zIeg8e3E6y">pic.twitter.com/zIeg8e3E6y</a>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/1988427144037363803?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<h2>Zadorov addresses the hit on Matthews</h2>



NHL veteran Nikita Zadorov offered his perspective on the hit, describing it as part of a routine play rather than an intentional attempt to injure the Maple Leafs captain.


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“I didn’t really hit him,” Zadorov said, according to <a href="https://www.nhl.com/news/toronto-maple-leafs-boston-bruins-game-recap-november-11-2025">NHL.com</a>. “I hit him with my right shoulder, and 99 percent of my hits in the NHL are with my right shoulder. I’m not sure what hit he got hurt on. Like, when he came after me again, I counter-hit him, or maybe when I cleared the puck I hit him with the puck, so we’re not going to speculate on that. 



He added: “It was just routine. I didn’t really want to hit him. I wanted to prevent him from taking the middle and I just stood there. You can see on the video I hit him with my chest. There was no intention to hurt him. I just play hard against top players on the other team. That’s my job.”



<h2>Matthews’ status and implications</h2>



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/toronto-maple-leafs">Maple Leafs</a> will continue evaluating Matthews’ condition, and it remains unclear if he will miss any extended time. Losing the team captain could significantly affect Toronto’s lineup, especially given the ongoing challenges in balancing their roster after recent injuries. 


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