Auston Matthews breaks the silence on his absence

The Leafs were on the cusp, but once again they must bow out in the first round after a defeat to the Bruins.

In contrast to goaltender Joseph Woll, Auston Matthews was able to take part in this do-or-die match. He performed admirably given the circumstances, delivering a superb pass for William Nylander's goal.

The NHL's leading goal scorer this season had missed the last two games, the only ones the Leafs managed to win to force a Game 7.

Auston Matthews spoke candidly following the Maple Leafs' first-round elimination.

"It's tough [to accept]. That goes without saying. It was a tight series, and I'm proud of how the guys battled back.

"I never doubted that we could do it. It was tough being relegated to the role of a spectator for two games."

We'll see how this latest disappointment is perceived in Toronto during the end-of-season review.

Source :