### Maple Leafs Face Injury Challenges as Auston Matthews is Ruled Day-to-Day The Toronto Maple Leafs are grappling with a series of injuries as they head into a crucial matchup against the New Jersey Devils. Star forward Auston Matthews has been ruled out for the game due to a lower-body injury sustained during a recent match against the Detroit Red Wings. This injury adds to the team's woes, as they are already missing key players like William Nylander, Dakota Joshua, and Chris Tanev. Matthews, who has been a significant contributor to the team's offense, is now considered day-to-day, raising concerns about the team's performance in his absence. The situation is compounded by the fact that Matthews has previously missed five games this season due to injury, making his current status particularly critical for the Maple Leafs' playoff aspirations [https://srnnews.com/maple-leafs-star-auston-matthews-lower-body-deemed-day-to-day, https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/maple-leafs-matthews-ruled-out-vs-devils-with-lower-body-injury]. ### Injury Overview and Team Impact 1. **Auston Matthews' Injury**: - Matthews suffered a lower-body injury after blocking a shot during a game against the Red Wings. He was initially a game-time decision but has since been ruled out for the upcoming game against the Devils [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/maple_leafs_auston_matthews_ruled_out_vs_devils_day_to_day_with_lower_body_injury]. 2. **Other Injuries**: - The Maple Leafs are also without William Nylander, who is day-to-day with a lower-body injury, and Dakota Joshua and Chris Tanev, both of whom are confirmed to miss the game [https://www.tsn.ca/nhl/article/maple-leafs-dealing-with-injuries-to-tanev-joshua-nylander-matthews-a-gtd-vs-devils]. 3. **Team Adjustments**: - In response to these injuries, the Maple Leafs have called up players from their AHL affiliate, including defender Matt Benning and forward Jacob Quillan, to fill the gaps in their lineup [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/leafs_dealing_with_multiple_injuries_ahead_of_game_against_devils/s1_16958_43265186]. ### Performance Metrics and Historical Context - **Matthews' Season Stats**: - As of now, Matthews has recorded 15 goals and 27 points in 33 games, maintaining a plus-four rating. His recent performance includes four points in the last two games, indicating he was regaining form before the injury [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/maple_leafs_forward_auston_matthews_injury_presents_steep_challenge_for_toronto/s1_14825_43267406]. - **Team's Current Standing**: - The Maple Leafs are facing a challenging period with multiple injuries, which could significantly impact their performance as they aim for a strong finish to the season. The absence of key players like Matthews and Nylander could hinder their offensive capabilities [https://theleafsnation.com/news/auston-matthews-game-time-decision-joshua-tanev-wont-play-devils]. ### Conclusion: Navigating Through Adversity In summary, the Toronto Maple Leafs are currently facing a significant challenge with the injury to Auston Matthews, who has been ruled out for their upcoming game against the New Jersey Devils. This situation is exacerbated by the absence of other key players, including William Nylander, Dakota Joshua, and Chris Tanev. The team will need to adapt quickly and rely on their depth to maintain competitiveness in the league. 1. **Injury Impact**: Matthews' absence is a critical blow to the team's offensive strategy. 2. **Team Adjustments**: The Maple Leafs are making roster changes to cope with the injuries. 3. **Performance Outlook**: The team's ability to perform without its stars will be tested in the coming games. The Maple Leafs must rally together to overcome these setbacks and continue their pursuit of success in the NHL [https://editorinleaf.com/auston-matthews-out-in-latest-devastating-leafs-injury-update].