Maple Leafs Thriving Without Matthews: Tavares and Marner Lead Charge Amid Injury Challenges
November 18, 2024The Toronto Maple Leafs have continued to excel despite the absence of star player Auston Matthews, boasting a league-leading record of 5-1-0 and an impressive .833 winning percentage over the last two weeks.
Coach Craig Berube has indicated that while Matthews is day-to-day, he is not experiencing any worsening of his condition, which has persisted since the preseason.
Matthews is currently sidelined for at least another week due to an undisclosed upper-body injury he sustained on November 3.
In Matthews' absence, John Tavares has stepped up significantly as the top-line center, scoring four goals and accumulating six points over the last six games.
Wingers Mitch Marner and Bobby McMann have also made notable contributions, with Marner netting four goals and ten points, while McMann has added three goals.
The team is facing additional challenges as center Calle Jarnkrok has undergone surgery for a groin and sports hernia issue, and he is now listed as month-to-month.
Jarnkrok's injury has been a concern since training camp, limiting his playtime early in the season before he ultimately opted for surgery.
Berube expressed disappointment regarding Jarnkrok's condition, acknowledging his potential to contribute if not hindered by injuries.
Although Matthews has been placed on injured reserve and has not practiced recently, he remains eligible to return at any time.
Jarnkrok's earliest potential return could coincide with the game against Utah on November 24.
Summary based on 1 source
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Source
ESPN • Nov 18, 2024
Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews at least a week away from play - ESPN