CALGARY, AB - MARCH 02: Toronto Maple Leafs Center Auston Matthews (34) looks on during the first period of an NHL game between the Calgary Flames and the Toronto Maple Leafs on March 2, 2023, at the Scotiabank Saddledome in Calgary, AB.

Matthews returns after blocking shot vs. Canucks

Kayla Douglas
3 years ago
Icon Sportswire / Getty

Toronto Maple Leafs star Auston Matthews wasn't on the bench to start the second period Saturday against the Vancouver Canucks after blocking a shot late in the opening frame, but he was able to return to the ice minutes later.

Matthews appeared to catch defenseman Noah Juulsen's shot on the side of his knee. He was slow to get up and made his way to the room.

Heading into Saturday's contest, Matthews led all NHL forwards with 76 blocks in 55 games.

It doesn't look like the 25-year-old will be able to capture back-to-back 60-goal seasons, but Matthews has still been key to Toronto's success this campaign with 28 tallies and 61 points.

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