Will the Bruins need to deal with this Maple Leafs superstar in Game 5?
The Boston Bruins have a commanding 3-1 series lead over the Toronto Maple Leafs and will look to win the series on Tuesday at TD Garden.
Game 4's win brought upon some major news, as Maple Leafs superstar Auston Matthews sat out the entire third period due to an illness.
Maple Leafs head coach Sheldon Keefe explained Matthews' illness more in depth following Game 4. Here's what Keefe said on the matter: "It's not one of those run-of-the-mill everyday type of illnesses that come and go. This one has lingered. The effects have lingered and gotten worse when he gets on the ice and is asserting himself."
Due to Matthews being sick, he was absent from the Maple Leafs' team practice on Monday. With Game 5 being set for Tuesday, it seems possible that he could end up missing it.
Clearly, this situation with Matthews is more severe than a regular sickness, so it makes sense that he has missed practice. However, with Matthews already missing an entire period in Game 4, it is hard not to wonder if he may be forced to miss Game 5.
Auston MatthewsMatthews, 26, has appeared in all four playoff games against the Bruins this series, posting one goal and three points.
The Bruins will now be keeping a very close eye on this situation. It would be brutal for the Leafs if Matthews can't play in a game where the Bruins can clinch.