The scuffling Toronto Maple Leafs have reason for optimism that their captain will return soon.
Auston Matthews' injury status is "improving," Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube told reporters on Wednesday.
"Matthews is coming along," said Berube. "He's improving. Obviously he won't play tomorrow."
On Tuesday Matthews skated for the first time since sustaining a lower-body injury against the Boston Bruins on Nov. 11. The Leafs captain took a hit from behind from Nikita Zadorov and then went back at the hulking defenceman moments later in what would be his final shift of the night, but Berube said the injury occurred earlier in the game.
The 28-year-old Matthews, who has 14 points in 2025-26, was limited to 33 goals in 67 games last season as he dealt with a persistent upper-body injury.
Centre Scott Laughton, who has been out with an upper-body injury, is a maybe for Thursday's game against the Columbus Blue Jackets.
"He's progressing. We'll see," said Berube.
Sammy Blais was initially questionable after taking a hard hit against the St. Louis Blues, but took part in practice Wednesday and is reportedly all clear.
The Maple Leafs have also been playing without Matthew Knies Anthony Stolarz, Brandon Carlo, Chris Tanev and Nicolas Roy, and none are expected back by Thursday.
