Auston Matthews definitely won’t play Game 6 tonight as the Maple Leafs face elimination at the hands of the Boston Bruins.
Matthews (undisclosed) skated — along with Bobby McMann (lower body) — prior to the Leafs’ main group that came out for a full morning skate.
“Auston is not available tonight,” said Leafs coach Sheldon Keefe. “And Bobby’s also not available. But, as you’re seeing, he is progressing well.”
Though Matthews has skated each day — however briefly — since Tuesday, it was the first sighting of McMann on the ice. He was injured April 13 against Detroit, Game 80 of the regular season.
Matthews hasn’t played since the second period of Game 4. He missed the Game 5 win in Boston that forced Game 6.
“Best goal scorer in the league since he came in,” said Bruins coach Jim Montgomery. “Great player. But they played great without him last game.”
The Leafs look to be going with the same lineup that won Game 5, including Joseph Woll in net, searching for a win at home that has eluded them for their last six home-playoff dates.
“Our approach to the game is that it can’t change,” said Keefe. “It’s very clear how and when we’ve had success of this series and how and when we haven’t. We have to come out with the same mindset that we brought to the road.”
The Bruins plan some changes, though Montgomery would not say what those changes will be, other than Danton Heinen (undisclosed) would not be available.
“There will be changes,” said Montgomery.
Jeremy Swayman remains the likely starter while defenceman Kevin Shattenkirk and centre John Beecher will likely draw back in.
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