Is Auston Matthews playing against Panthers? NHL insider provides crucial update on Maple Leafs' captain return

Auston Matthews has been ruled out of Wednesday's game against the Florida Panthers. According to NHL insider Chris Johnston, Matthews still needs more practice before returning to the lineup. He resumed skating on Saturday and participated in Tuesday's practice; however, he will miss his ninth consecutive game. Matthews could potentially return for Saturday's matchup against the Tampa Bay Lightning.

"It doesn't sound like Auston Matthews is quite ready to return to the #leafs lineup tonight. Still needs a few more skates to get back up to speed. Saturday's game in Tampa remains a possibility," Johnston tweeted on Wednesday.

Despite Matthews’ absence, the Toronto Maple Leafs have been playing well and are 7-1 without him. The Maple Leafs are playing well on both ends. They have defeated strong offensive teams like the Washington Capitals and Edmonton Oilers, although via a close gap of 4-3 in both games.

Toronto has also recorded two shutout wins over that span, defeating the Boston Bruins 4-0 and the Vegas Golden Knights 3-0. Its goal differential is 14-8 in the four-game win streak.

Auston Matthews' return could change things, but for now, the team is thriving without him. Matthews has scored five goals and earned 11 points in 13 games this season.

Projected Leafs lineup per Insider Mark Masters for tonight’s games in Florida

Forwards

• McMann - Tavares - Marner
• Robertson - Holmberg - W. Nylander
• Grebenkin - Minten - A. Nylander
• Steeves - Dewar - Lorentz

Defenseman

• McCabe - Tanev
• Rielly - Ekman-Larsson
• Benoit - Timmins

Goalie

• Stolarz starts
• Woll

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Maple Leafs adapt line combinations while awaiting Auston Matthews' return

The Toronto Maple Leafs have been rolling despite playing without Auston Matthews since Oct. 28. The team has also dealt with injuries to other key players like Max Domi, Matthew Knies and David Kampf. Toronto coach Craig Berube has tried different line combinations to adjust.

The most consistent line has been Bobby McMann, John Tavares and Mitch Marner, who have combined for 24 points in seven games. Most of the points came from Tavares and Marner, but McMann’s forechecking and ability to create space have been key.

Matthews is close to returning and joined the team for practice. However, Berube decided not to put him back with Marner right away. Instead, Matthews played with William Nylander and Pontus Holmberg.

"The line has been very good, both defensively and offensively. They are doing a really good job there," Berube said on Tuesday, via TheLeafsNation. "I felt really reluctant to just put Mitch and Matty back together."

This decision shows that Berube wants to keep successful lineups in place. This approach may help avoid the struggles the team has faced in past playoffs.