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Craig Berube Addresses Auston Matthews' Status After Scratch Against Canadiens
Photo credit: Sam Navarro | Imagn Images
Concerns arose when Auston Matthews was not a full participant in line rushes at practice on Saturday morning, but Craig Berube's comments have clarified everything.
Everyone around Maple Leafs training camp sees a healthy and rejuvenated captain in Auston Matthews, who is looking to bounce back after an injury-plagued 2024-2025 season.
The 28-year-old has played in just one pre-season game so far, on Tuesday against the Ottawa Senators, notching a goal and tallying 8 shots on goal, and playing almost 22 minutes. Matthews looked like his old self, knock on wood.
Ahead of Saturday's game against the Montreal Canadiens, Matthews took part in practice, but when it came time for line rushes, he was not a full participant, skating as the extra forward.
Craig Berube Calms Concerns Over Auston Matthews' Health
His usage during line rushes caused some concern, but following practice, head coach Craig Berube was quick to shoot down any concerns of an injury.
"He's been extremely good in camp, like, very good with how he looks, his effort, his competitiveness & things like that. He's going to get another game, but I'm not too worried about getting a certain amount of games in."
Saturday's game against the Habs will be the Leafs' final pre-season game until October 2nd, which will likely be the next time Matthews is in the lineup.
That also means we could see the Leafs make a number of cuts in the coming days to prepare for the opening of the regular season.
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 27 | 2066 ANSWERS Craig Berube Addresses Auston Matthews' Status After Scratch Against Canadiens Will Auston Matthews win his fourth Rocket Richard Trophy? | ||
| Yes, if he stays healthy | 1325 | 64.1 % |
| No, he'll struggle without Marner | 741 | 35.9 % |
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