Published on May 4, 2024, at 03:59 PM ET, the Maple Leafs and Boston Bruins took to the ice at TD Garden on Saturday in anticipation of tonight’s Game 7 showdown.
Auston Matthews returned to the ice once again on Saturday morning, marking his fifth consecutive day on skates and his initial full session alongside teammates since being sidelined by an undisclosed injury.
Coach Sheldon Keefe commented on Matthews’ progress, stating, “He’s been progressing. Last time we were in here, I think he got about 10 minutes out on the ice [before Game 5 on Tuesday]. Today, we got him about 15, so that’s progress, but no determination on his status tonight.”
Matthews has missed the last two games for the Leafs, and Keefe hinted later in his media session that it’s unlikely Matthews will play in Game 7.
The uncertainty surrounding Matthews’ availability has loomed large over the series, even as the Leafs rallied from a 3-1 deficit to force a Game 7 in Boston. Winger Mitch Marner expressed empathy for Matthews, acknowledging the difficulty of being sidelined and the relentless inquiries about his health.
Game 7 holds particular significance for Marner and the Leafs, given their track record. Marner joined the team in the 2016-17 season, during which the Leafs have gone 0-4 in Game 7s and 0-5 in winner-take-all games.
Despite their previous Game 7 disappointments, Marner emphasized the team’s focus on the present challenge and the excitement surrounding the opportunity to advance in the playoffs.
The Bruins, meanwhile, made a change to their routine by holding their morning skate at TD Garden for the first time in four home games in the series. Coach Jim Montgomery cited a desire to mix things up and familiarize players with the game environment.
Montgomery emphasized the need for the Bruins to draw more penalties and create more odd-man rushes, noting their recent lack of success in these areas. Boston has converted on 40% of its power play chances in the series.
On the other hand, the Leafs’ power play has struggled, with only one goal in 20 attempts. Marner acknowledged the need for improvement, emphasizing the importance of simplicity and persistence.
In terms of lineup changes, the Leafs did not reveal their lines at the morning skate, leaving any adjustments to be determined during warm-up. However, Noah Gregor replaced Ryan Reaves in Game 6, a decision influenced by the desire for speed and energy.
Reaves, though not playing, remained a vocal presence and source of encouragement for his teammates, embodying the team-first mentality.
Bobby McMann, recovering from a lower-body injury, participated in Saturday’s skate, signaling progress toward a return to play.
The winner of the Leafs-Bruins series will advance to face the Florida team in Game 1 of the second round on Monday.
