Dec 7, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Toronto Maple Leafs center Auston Matthews (34) looks on against the Pittsburgh Penguins during the third period at PPG Paints Arena. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

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Should the Maple Leafs Place Auston Matthews on LTIR?

This season, Auston Matthews has been a shadow of his usual self. After being placed on the injured list for the second time this season last Tuesday, the Maple Leafs are undoubtedly facing a significant dilemma regarding their superstar.

Following the Lightning’s Playbook?

As the trade deadline approaches, the Leafs’ decision will define their strategy for the rest of the season.

It’s important to note that if the Leafs place Auston Matthews on long-term injured reserve (LTIR), his salary cap hit would be removed from the books for the remainder of the regular season. This would grant the franchise critical flexibility to make acquisitions at the trade deadline.

Additionally, it would relieve Matthews of the pressure to rush his return just ahead of the playoffs.

This strategy mirrors the Tampa Bay Lightning’s approach in 2021 with Nikita Kucherov.

The Florida-based franchise placed Kucherov on LTIR until the end of the regular season and reactivated him just in time for the playoffs. The Golden Knights followed a similar tactic with Mark Stone, ultimately achieving the same result: a Stanley Cup championship.

With potential upgrades available on defense, it might be wise for the Leafs to keep Matthews sidelined to strengthen their roster and increase their chances of advancing past the first round of the playoffs.

A Blow for Team USA

Matthews’ absence is also a significant setback for Team USA, with the pressure mounting ahead of the upcoming Four Nations tournament.

With Team Canada expected to feature all its top talent, the absence of Matthews will undoubtedly hurt Team USA’s chances. Once again, the Leafs’ decision could have far-reaching consequences.

Auston Matthews’ Limited Impact This Season

This season, Auston Matthews has appeared in just 24 games, tallying 11 goals and 12 assists.

Photo Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Auston Matthews

Toronto Maple Leafs

Charles Taudin

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Global Editorial Chief of The Playoffs, I created The Free Agent, which became The Playoffs FR, in 2020 during the pandemic. A longtime fan of the four major American sports, I now oversee the editorial strategy and social media for all versions of The Playoffs. I still occasionally write about sports I’m particularly passionate about, such as the NFL or MLB. If there’s one thing you should remember: Eli Manning is the true GOAT for beating Tom Brady twice.