The truth about Auston Matthews' absence; it's not an illness at all

Maple Leafs fans were left puzzled when Auston Matthews was ruled out for Game 5, but what was initially believed to be an illness appears to be something worse.

Matthews, the revered Rocket Richard Trophy winner, had been conspicuously absent from nearly all team activities post-Game 2, raising questions about his sudden decline in participation.

Despite these challenges, he took to the ice for Games 3 and 4. However, during Game 4, Matthews was withdrawn from play by team medical staff, unable to continue—a move that sparked widespread speculation.

While initial reports from most sports media, including those by Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, pointed towards food poisoning, a different theory has surfaced. Howard Berger, a Leafs reporter, speculated that Matthews might be suffering from concussion effects, not just an illness.


This theory, while not confirmed, was not dismissed by Friedman. He expressed skepticism about the food poisoning explanation as well on Tuesday, suggesting the issue could be more severe.




The uncertainty surrounding Matthews' condition adds a layer of intrigue and concern. Pulled between periods during Saturday's game and unable to return, the possibility of a lingering or new injury from earlier in the series has become a topic of considerable discussion.

The true nature of Matthews' situation remains undisclosed, and according to Friedman's insights, it may remain so until the Maple Leafs conclude their playoff journey.

Fans and analysts alike are left watching and waiting, hoping for positive news but preparing for a scenario that might be graver than initially thought.