Can the Toronto Maple Leafs contend without Auston Matthews in the lineup? That thought has become increasingly prominent among most NHL circles. The fact that Matthews is out of the lineup again suggests that there could be something seriously wrong with the Leafs captain.
Now, we’ve touched on this point in the past. Auston Matthews trip to Germany earlier this year to seek treatment and his prolonged stay on the IR means something’s up. At this point, there’s even talk about shutting Matthews down for the season.
While such talk may be premature, there’s a feeling that a stint on LTIR could at least be on the horizon.
As such, we must entertain the thought of the Toronto Maple Leafs going for an extended period without their captain.
3 Reasons Why the Toronto Maple Leafs Can Contend Without Auston Matthews
In my estimation, Matthews could be out for at least the 4 Nations Faceoff. As a side note, I bring this up because the 4 Nations event is a marketing gimmick and Matthews headlines the American squad. Without Matthews, the American side loses their biggest marketing ploy.
Still, I don’t believe there’s any way the Leafs allow Matthews to play in the 4 Nations just for marketing’s sake. Be that as it may, the Leafs will now have to turn their attention to the prospect of contending for the Stanley Cup without Auston Matthews.
So, here’s a look at three reasons why the Toronto Maple Leafs can contend without Auston Matthews in the lineup. I must warn readers, it won’t be pretty, but it’s certainly doable.