Leafs’ Matthews (lower-body) could miss week

Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews might be sidelined for up to a week due to a lower-body injury, as confirmed by coach Craig Berube on Thursday.

The forward’s availability was uncertain after he left the game in the second period on Tuesday against Boston, following a hit from Bruins’ defenseman Nikita Zadorov. Toronto is set to face the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday evening.

«[Matthews] could return sooner [than a week],» Berube stated. «It’s one of those situations [where] he might feel significantly better in a couple of days and [we’re] hopeful he’s ready to play. But we will have to see. It could be up to a week.»

Anthony Stolarz also departed after the first period, during which he surrendered three goals on 10 shots. Berube indicated on Tuesday that he didn’t believe Stolarz’s issue was severe and on Thursday confirmed he is day-to-day. The goaltender has a record of 6-5-1 this season with an .884 SV% and 3.51 GAA.

Dennis Hildeby is anticipated to start for Toronto against the Kings. The Leafs have recalled goaltender Artur Akhtyamov from the American Hockey League on Thursday to serve as Hildeby’s backup. Additionally, forward Scott Laughton has been placed on injured reserve due to an upper-body injury.