Major update emerges on condition of Leafs Auston Matthews

Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews went back onto the ice for practice for the first time on Friday after sustaining a lower-body injury in training camp. The 27-year-old sat out Thursday's contest against the Montreal Canadiens for precautionary reasons. It's not uncommon for star players to miss preseason games for various reasons, so his absence didn't raise major concerns for most; however, to those who always fear the worst, it definitely wasn't a pleasant sight. Head coach Craig Berube had told media in camp the injury was minor and wouldn't impact Matthews' availability to start the regular season.

Although he didn't play, Auston Matthews wasn't a complete stranger to the ice on Thursday, taking some extra work in with Calle Jarnkrok. He joined the team's optional skate as a full participant, easing his way in. On Friday, Matthews returned to practice in full capacity, skating with the same pace and drive that suggests he is back to 100 percent.

Early in camp, Auston Matthews lined up with Matthew Knies and Mitch Marner, a trio that will more than likely comprise Toronto's top line when the NHL season gets underway on October 9. The interplay between those three has been one of the focal points of the club so far in camp as it readies to open the season against the Montreal Canadiens next week. This trio could play a crucial role in the Maple Leafs' attack, with Matthews leading the charge.

Along with going back to his line, Auston Matthews returned to the first power play unit with Mitch Marner, William Nylander, Morgan Rielly and Bobby McMann. McMann was dressed in place of John Tavares, now listed as day-to-day with his own lower-body injury. Easton Cowan also got some power play reps after looking good Thursday with Marner and Max Domi. The power play configuration will likely be fluid early in the season, but the presence of Matthews creates a true significant threat.

Of course, coming off his stellar 2023-24 season in which he scored 69 goals, the most since Mario Lemieux's 1995-96 season, and garnered 107 points, there is reason to believe that Auston Matthews will have another dominant year. He also earned his first Selke Trophy nomination for his defensive work, ultimately placing fourth in Hart Trophy balloting as well.

The newest captain of the Leafs, only the 21st in team history, after the announcement was made on August 14, Auston Matthews is embracing being a leader and will do so for the first time as Toronto begins its ninth season under his services. Now that the scare of an injury has passed, the captain of the Leafs is ready to lead his team with much confidence and skill, having become one of the most feared players in the league.