Leafs reporter reveals bad health news for Matthews before elimination

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Sam Walker
April 30, 2024 (12:07)

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Auston Matthews' Game 5 Participation Uncertain

Tonight's matchup against the Boston Bruins could see the Toronto Maple Leafs without star player Auston Matthews due to possible concussion symptoms.

Reports indicate that Matthews might be sidelined, prompting speculation about the nature of his injury. Leafs analyst Howard Berger noted that the team is avoiding the term 'concussion', suggesting a more serious condition.

Coach Sheldon Keefe's comments further fueled concerns, indicating that Matthews' symptoms worsen during physical exertion on the ice.

In seeking clarity, Berger consulted a sports clinician who raised the possibility of another head injury.

«I know that Matthews has sustained at least two concussions during his years in the NHL,» said the sports clinician. «And, while I have no pertinent info, the fact the Leafs are calling it an �illness' rather than an injury � and that the issue is complicated by physical exertion � leads me to think he may have taken another shot to the head. Of course, the NHL has strict concussion protocol and the Leafs would be obligated to keep Matthews out of the line�up if he's experiencing any effects of post�concussion syndrome. I'm sort of debunking my own argument, but no one tells the truth in the playoffs. So we are left to speculate. And, I'm comfortable with the head�shot hypothesis.» Others have suggested Matthews incurred food poisoning. «Were that the case, he'd be very sick for a brief time,» said the doctor. «Food poisoning doesn't �linger'. Neither is it exacerbated by physical activity.

However, some suggest food poisoning as an alternative explanation, which the doctor refutes.

«That's another possibility, but influenza is very contagious and would likely be going through the dressing room. The Leafs haven't said anything about other players being ill. So, I kind of doubt it.»

As uncertainty looms over Matthews' status, fans are anxious about the impact on the Leafs' playoffs coming to an end tonight.