TORONTO — Auston Matthews, the star center and captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs, has made a significant transatlantic trip to Germany in hopes of resolving the mystery surrounding his upper-body injury.

Since November 5, Matthews has been day-to-day and has missed six games, with a seventh anticipated absence as Toronto prepares to face the Vegas Golden Knights.

Maple Leafs General Manager Brad Treliving confirmed after yesterday's practice that Matthews is consulting with a doctor he has previously worked with.

"It's more of a general checkup, but we're also looking to get some work done on this issue," Treliving stated. Accompanying Matthews on this trip is a team doctor, ensuring that the process is well-managed.

With only two games scheduled this week, the organization decided to seize the opportunity for Matthews to receive specialized care.

Treliving reassured fans, emphasizing that this isn't a cause for alarm and that he remains optimistic. "Our hopes are that by the end of this week, he’ll be back on the ice skating again," he said.

While exact details of Matthews’ condition remain under wraps, Treliving dismissed speculation about surgery or serious setbacks.

The consensus is that Matthews, a three-time Maurice (Rocket) Richard Trophy winner, is doing well in his recovery. Before his injury, Matthews showcased impressive performance, scoring five goals and making six assists in just 13 games.

Toronto is currently dealing with a crisis of injuries.

In addition to Matthews, the team is missing forwards Max Pacioretty and Calle Jarnkrok. To add to the trouble, it was announced that center David Kampf will also be sidelined due to a lower-body injury.

This has led to the recall of Fraser Minten from the minors to fill Kampf’s role.

Despite these setbacks, Treliving praised the team for their resilience.

Stating, "Nobody’s going to feel sorry for you in the league. Injuries are part of the NHL. If you can’t work through them, you’re not going to have much success."

In Matthews' absence, winger Mitch Marner has stepped up significantly.

Garnering 10 points over six games, including four goals in his last five outings. His offensive contributions have kept Toronto competitive during this rough patch.

John Tavares, Leafs captain before Matthews, acknowledged Marner's ability to maintain his focus during a contract year.

Noting his overall impact on the ice.

Meanwhile, the team is exploring the possibility of Marner taking on even more responsibility.

By playing at the center position. Head coach Craig Berube expressed confidence in Marner’s versatility, stating, "He said, 'No problem, whatever you want.' He's smart enough, for sure."

Adding to the drama surrounding the team, enforcer Ryan Reaves has been suspended for five games.

Following an illegal check to the head of Darnell Nurse during a recent game against the Edmonton Oilers.

Treliving reflected, "It's a hockey play that goes wrong," highlighting the complicated nature of injuries in the sport.

Lastly, forward Max Domi is going through his struggles as he battles a 13-game point drought despite being in an offensive role.

Coach Berube expressed his support for Domi, stating that he believes the forward is dealing with some physical challenges but is confident he'll work through them.

As the Leafs navigate this challenging phase, fans are left wondering how long they must wait to see their superstar captain back on the ice.

The team’s depth will be put to the test, but hope remains that Matthews will soon return, igniting their season once again. Stay tuned as the situation develops!