Reporter argues why Maple Leafs should ban Auston Matthews from 4 Nations Face-Off
Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews was selected for Team USA at the 4 Nations Face-Off, but one reporter believes the team should consider intervening.
Four Toronto Maple Leafs stars will play at the 4 Nations Face-Off this winter, including Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, William Nylander, and even Jani Hakanpaa.
Nick Alberga questions Auston Matthews at the 4 Nations Face-Off
Of course, Matthews has dealt with some injury problems this season and it has certainly affected his offensive production.
With that in mind, some fans have questioned whether or not it is actually wise for him to being playing extra hockey, especially in the middle of the season.
Auston Matthews could find himself with another injury, and that is absolutely the last thing the Toronto Maple Leafs need.
Having said that, during an episode of Leafs Morning Take, host Nick Alberga posed the question to David Pagnotta about whether or not the team should ask Matthews to back out from the tournament.
Pagnotta noted that they could suggest it but they cannot out right ban Matthews from attending.
Meanwhile, Alberga believes the same logic can be applied to Jani Hakanpaa, who has been dealing with injuries all season long.
However, as Pagnotta did catch on to, perhaps Alberga's suggestion is more about giving Team Canada a better chance at winning, than actually protecting the Maple Leafs captain.
At this stage of the game, it is very likely that Matthews will go through with his commitment and play for his country.
After all, the 4 Nations Face-Off is a brand-new invention and a lot of players are excited about it.
Playing for your country is a dream come true for a lot of hockey players, and Auston Matthews is no different in that regard.
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 17 | 237 ANSWERS Reporter argues why Maple Leafs should ban Auston Matthews from 4 Nations Face-Off Do you believe the Toronto Maple Leafs should ban Auston Matthews from the 4 Nations Face-Off? | ||
| YES | 57 | 24.1 % |
| NO | 180 | 75.9 % |
| List of polls | ||
