Auston Matthews showed in game 2 why he is one of the best players in the NHL right now. He dominated all ends of the ice for the Leafs, scoring the game-winning goal for the Leafs while getting a point on all 3 goals the Leafs scored.
The Leafs need Auston Matthews at his best in order to make a push this post-season, which is why it was incredibly unnerving to see that he is absent from practice today for the Leafs, as reported by Chris Johnston.
This got the attention of Leaf fans, who were immediately worried for their Star's health. However, it was quickly clarified by Elliotte Friedman that Matthews was just taking the rest option that was likely given to him ahead of game 3.
This should be a sigh of relief for Leaf fans knowing that Matthews is healthy and just resting up before a big game 3 at home tonight. Hopefully, he will be able to replicate his game-2 performance in front of the home crowd.