Maple Leafs Thrive Despite Matthews' Absence 

It's incredible to see how the Maple Leafs have stepped up in the absence of Auston Matthews. The narrative around their 'Core Four' has often been about how their salary structure limits depth, but this season, they are proving that a strong supporting cast can make a significant difference.

Mitch Marner and John Tavares have really taken the reins, showcasing their leadership and skill. Marner's recent performance, especially with that overtime winner, is a testament to his ability to rise to the occasion. It's also impressive to see players like Bobby McMann and Matthew Knies stepping up and contributing when the team needs it most.

The power play's turnaround without Matthews is particularly striking. It seems like the team has found a new rhythm, perhaps realizing they can't rely solely on their superstar. This kind of depth is crucial for any team looking to make a deep playoff run.

Of course, the injuries are a concern, and it will be interesting to see how they manage the lineup moving forward. But if they can maintain this level of play and keep finding contributions from their depth players, the Maple Leafs could be a force to reckon with this season. What do you think about their chances if Matthews returns healthy?