In a stunning turn of events, the Toronto Maple Leafs have managed to survive two elimination games without their star player, Auston Matthews. Now, as they gear up for Game 7 against the Boston Bruins, it appears unlikely that Matthews will be able to take the ice.

According to a report by The Athletic, Matthews is dealing with an undisclosed ailment that has kept him out of the past two games. Although the exact nature of his injury remains a mystery, sources suggest that it would be "reckless" for him to play in the crucial Game 7.

Despite Matthews' absence, the Maple Leafs have defied expectations and rallied behind their defense and goaltending to secure two consecutive 2-1 victories over the Bruins. These wins have allowed them to even the series after falling into a 3-1 deficit.

Maple Leafs captain, John Tavares, acknowledged the challenges of playing without their star forward, stating, "It's difficult when you have one of the best players in the world possibly not available. But it's the nature of the game, the sport, and we've been through it before."

Matthews, who had an impressive 69 goals this season, has been participating in individual drills and skating sessions with the team's staff. However, it seems that his condition has not improved enough to confidently place him on the roster for Game 7.

Reflecting on their remarkable comeback in the series, Maple Leafs defenseman Joel Edmundson revealed that the team drew inspiration from last year's playoffs, where the Bruins themselves squandered a 3-1 lead against the Florida Panthers. The reminder of that historic collapse fueled their determination to keep fighting and gave them the momentum needed to turn the tide.

As Game 7 looms large, the Maple Leafs find themselves in a high-stakes battle against the Bruins. Whether or not they have their best player on the ice, the team remains resolute in their approach, knowing that they have nothing to lose in this winner-takes-all showdown.

Fans will eagerly watch as Toronto and Boston clash at 8 p.m. on Saturday night in what promises to be an intense and unpredictable contest. Will the Maple Leafs be able to continue their miraculous comeback? Or will the Bruins find redemption and exorcise the ghosts of last year's collapse? Only time will tell.