NHL Insider Reveals 'Best Case Scenario' for Leafs Captain Auston Matthews

Auston Matthews suffered an unfortunate lower-body injury against the Boston Bruins last Tuesday. When it happened, no one is entirely sure, but rumours that it had happened when he was hit by defenseman Nikita Zadorov were shot down by head coach Craig Berube, so we can rule that out.

Late last week, the Leafs placed the three-time Rocket Richard Trophy winner on injured reserve, allowing them to recall a player from the Marlies. In placing him on IR, the Leafs ensured it was retroactive to the date of his injury, meaning that he would be eligible to be activated this week.

That, however, does not appear likely to happen as Craig Berube confirmed following practice on Monday that the Arizona native has yet to skate since his injury.

On Monday's edition of 'Leafs Morning Take', TSN's Darren Dreger revealed that a 'best case scenario' return date for Matthews would be on Saturday in Montreal.

Given that Matthews has yet to resume skating, a Saturday return seems highly unlikely at this point.

As of right now, the Leafs appear set to play all three games this week without Matthews, Anthony Stolarz, Chris Tanev and Brandon Carlo, while Nicolas Roy and Scott Laughton will miss Tuesday's game at the very least.

Leafs GM Brad Treliving is expected to meet with the media on Tuesday, so perhaps we'll receive an update on Matthews to provide a little more clarity on the situation and confirm a potential timeline for recovery.