Auston Matthews Comments On His Injury Situation Following Disappointing Loss To Senators

Needing a crucial win over the Ottawa Senators on Saturday night, the Toronto Maple Leafs came out strong but ultimately faltered, leading to a 4-2 loss as the gap between Florida and Toronto gets wider in the standings.

There was a huge shift in the lineup, which seemed to work a bit but had some problems in other areas though one big factor was Auston Matthews.

Was the Maple Leafs captain able to get back on track, or is there another injury he's dealing with as is highly speculated?

According to the man himself, he hasn't explicitly stated he's dealing with an injury, but admitted the grind of the season may be wearing on him:

It's clear that he's not 100%, but it's a worrying sign given how injured he has been the last couple of seasons. This year alone he's missed 15 games, missed a game at the 4 Nations, and at this point in the season is over 30 goals under his previous output.

It's one thing to keep pushing through some aches and pains, but there's a clear difference here. Matthews hasn't had that pep in his step, and even when he's shooting doesn't have that explosiveness.

Head coach Craig Berube understands the rigors and pains of an NHL season, and admitted that he, along with other players are banged up but given it's the nature of the business; they'll be alright:

It's not that fans are sympathetic to the situation though, and more frustrated that things haven't been cut off earlier when the season standings weren't as important, and having a fully healthy Matthews when it counts.

Matthews hasn't been himself this season whatsoever. He has 57 points in 51 games but only has 24 goals, a huge drop-off from his historic season last year though an injury filled campaign isn't gonna help things.

It'll only be a matter of time before we see how badly this will affect the Maple Leafs, and if they don't get their wounded rested and healed; get ready for another quick first round exit.