Like Tavares, Marner has played quite well in Matthews’ absence. His impact has mostly come defensively and on special teams. He has four power-play goals since Matthews went out, plus one short-handed goal and one three-on-three overtime winner.

Berube reiterated that Matthews’ return will depend on when the star center feels ready to compete, and given the Leafs' form without him in the lineup there is no reason to rush his return. Matthews has been sidelined with an upper-body injury since Nov. 3, but Toronto has gone on to put up an impressive 7-1 record with its captain sidelined.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have been winning without Auston Matthews in the lineup. He is now returning. What does the team do?