Auston Matthews Set to Return Against Lightning

Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews is set to return to the lineup against the Tampa Bay Lightning after missing nine games due to an upper-body injury sustained in preseason. Despite his absence, the Leafs managed a 7-2 record, but struggled offensively, as highlighted by a recent 4-1 loss to the Florida Panthers. Matthews sought treatment from a specialist in Germany and has been practicing with the team to regain his stamina. His return is timely as the Leafs are dealing with several other injuries to key players like Max Domi and David Kampf. Matthews will likely play alongside William Nylander and Matthew Knies, who is also returning from an injury. The Leafs' power play unit, featuring Matthews, will also reunite, aiming to boost the team's offensive output.