Auston Matthews' season could be over after today's health update
After the Toronto Maple Leafs game four loss to the Boston Bruins, where an awful lot materialized and was the talk during post-game interviews, Sheldon Keefe clarified Auston Matthews third period absence with what is believed to be an illness.
It is not known what the illness is or how long he has been battling it, but based on the coaches comments below, it's possible he's been dealing with it for a while and that although he's played through it, it's become increasingly difficult to do so.
"For whatever reason, it's not one of those run-of-the-mill everyday type of illnesses that sort of come and go. This one has lingered. The affects have lingered and gotten worse when he gets on the ice and is asserting himself."
Media and fans have put an awful lot of pressure on athletes to preform through everything that others in humanity tend to get a pass on and despite the fact the Keefe was secretive regarding the circumstances of Matthews ailments it's nobodies business what he is going through and people should just wish him better health.
Is the timing suspect? Sure. As a fan should he be cut some slack? To an extent, yes. A small percentage of people are lucky to play professional sports and an even smaller percentage plays professional hockey and in the National Hockey League. In the time that Matthews has been a member of the Maple Leafs he's never shied away from excuses or explanations for his play. As a fanbase, even if they're at their wits end, having him healthy should be the first thing in the front of everyone's mind, especially in the long term.
POLL |
Can the Maple Leafs win Game 5 without Auston Matthews? |
Yes | 182 | 30 % |
No | 424 | 70 % |
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