Game 5 Showdown: Matthews' Status Uncertain for Maple Leafs, Bruins Consider Adjusting Their Roster

Tuesday, April 30th, 2024

The availability of Auston Matthews for the fifth game in the series against Boston is still in question due to his battle with an illness. He was seen participating in some light practice drills on Tuesday but did not stay for the entire session.

In the third installment of the series, Matthews pushed through his illness, but during the fourth game, he was taken out in the third period by the medical staff. Further assessments are awaited.

Should Matthews be sidelined, Max Domi is positioned to step up as the first-line center, with William Nylander advancing to the second line. Additionally, Domi is expected to bolster the power play unit, which has been underperforming.

There's also talk of a goaltender switch for Toronto, with Joseph Woll potentially stepping in for Ilya Samsonov. Woll boasts an impressive regular-season performance alongside playoff experience.

Coach Keefe has highlighted the urgency for enhanced play from the special teams and the goaltender if Toronto hopes to maintain their competitive edge in the series, areas where Boston has excelled.

From the Boston camp, Brad Marchand and Danton Heinen made their way back to practice on Tuesday. However, the participation of Derek Forbort and Justin Brazeau in Game 5 is still up in the air.

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