Toronto Maple Leafs' star center, Auston Matthews, remains in an uncertain state for Game 7 of the Eastern Conference First Round against the Boston Bruins. Though Matthews skated on his own on Friday, there is still no determination regarding his availability for the crucial game on Saturday.

Maple Leafs coach Sheldon Keefe addressed the situation, stating, "Yeah, there's been progress, he skated again here today but no determination on his availability." Matthews, who led the NHL with an impressive 69 goals in 81 regular-season games, has missed the past two games. His absence did not hinder the team's performance, as they managed to secure a 2-1 overtime win in Game 5 and a crucial 2-1 victory in Game 6 to tie the best-of-7 series.

Defenseman Morgan Rielly expressed confidence in the team's ability to adapt without Matthews, saying, "We're in a position where if we win, we are alive, if we lose, we are dead, and that's the way we've been the last two games, and I think we've performed well under those circumstances."

Matthews briefly appeared on the ice during the morning skate before Game 5, and subsequently skated on his own at the Maple Leafs practice facility on Wednesday. However, he departed before the full session began. The exact cause of Matthews' absence remains undisclosed. He left Game 4 after the second period, with Keefe stating that he was "removed by doctors." The nature of his ailment, whether it is an illness, an injury, or both, remains unclear.

So far in the series, Matthews has contributed three points, with one goal and two assists, all of which came in the team's 3-2 win in Game 2. Despite the uncertainty surrounding his availability, the Maple Leafs have proven their ability to succeed without their star player, boasting a perfect 3-0 record when Matthews has been absent this season.

Captain John Tavares expressed excitement about the opportunity in Game 7, stating, "It's a great opportunity. We've got the series back level and an opportunity to move on. This is what we're playing for. This is what it's all about."

As the Maple Leafs prepare for the pivotal Game 7, the status of Auston Matthews remains a critical question. The team will be anxiously waiting for an update on whether they will have their prolific goal scorer back on the ice to help them secure victory in the decisive game.