Craig Berube Takes Responsibility for Auston Matthews' Absence at Maple Leafs Practice

It was a bit of a concerning scene on Monday during Maple Leafs practice, as captain Auston Matthews was absent, as questions grew regarding a potential injury, and if that was the reason he had only scored one goal so far this series.

All fears were quelled quickly however as it was revealed the captain was simply taking the day off to rest and make sure he was properly prepared mentally and physically for Game 5 on Tuesday.

Though it gave everyone a bit of a fright, all accountability fell on Craig Berube, who admitted to media after the practice that Matthews needed the rest, and asked for a bit of extra time to get back to speed:

Talking about minutes, it seems that guys like Mitch Marner and Morgan Rielly need to have some time off too, as both men hit 28 and nearly 31 minutes respectively. It was their first real test of endurance in the playoffs, though both men were back on the ice Monday.

But it's really a good thing that Berube is aware of his players' need to rest and while it might feel like a bit of coddling or favoritism but wouldn't it be better for the Maple Leafs to have their best players rested as opposed to force them out? It's the coach's job to manage the roster, so perhaps we should let Chief do his job.

All that matters is that Auston Matthews isn't hurt, the Maple Leafs are still up 3-1 and headed back home, and are firmly set to take out the Senators once and for all.

At least, that's what we all hope happens on Tuesday.