The Toronto Maple Leafs will not have Auston Matthews in the lineup for a powerhouse divisional clash with the Florida Panthers on Wednesday.

Berube reiterated that Matthews’ return will depend on when the star center feels ready to compete, and given the Leafs' form without him in the lineup there is no reason to rush his return. Matthews has been sidelined with an upper-body injury since Nov. 3, but Toronto has gone on to put up an impressive 7-1 record with its captain sidelined.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have hit their stride without Auston Matthews in the lineup, climbing to first place in the Atlantic Division by embracing a more straightforward, disciplined style of play.