Auston Matthews Set to Return for Maple Leafs Against Lightning

The Toronto captain will play Saturday after a month-long absence due to an upper-body injury.

Auston Matthews, sidelined since November 3 with an upper-body injury, confirmed his intention to return for Saturday's game against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
The 27-year-old sought treatment in Germany for an injury that had been affecting him since the preseason, describing his recovery as a proactive effort to avoid lingering issues.
Matthews, a three-time Rocket Richard Trophy winner, has recorded five goals and six assists in 13 games this season, though his shooting percentage was notably below his career average prior to his absence.
The Maple Leafs performed well in his absence, going 7-2 and maintaining second place in the Atlantic Division, one point behind the Florida Panthers.
Toronto may also see forward Matthew Knies return from injury Saturday, potentially bolstering the lineup further alongside Matthews.