‘We’ll see’: Maple Leafs’ Berube on Tavares, Knies availability vs. Oilers
Following Friday’s practice, head coach Craig Berube provided some updates on the injuries to star forwards John Tavares and Matthew Knies ahead of their game Saturday against the Edmonton Oilers.
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The Toronto Maple Leafs could be in for some good news as they gear up for an all-Canadian showdown.
Following Friday’s practice, head coach Craig Berube provided some updates on the injuries to star forwards John Tavares and Matthew Knies ahead of their game Saturday against the Edmonton Oilers.
Both players suited up for the team’s practice wearing regular jerseys — their first appearances on the ice without non-contract jerseys.
“We’ll see,” Berube said. “They seemed good today. … Full practice felt good so there’s a good chance, but we’ll see.”
Tavares has missed the team’s last six games after suffering a lower-body injury in practice on Jan. 16 and was ruled week-to-week. The 34-year-old forward and former captain has 20 goals and 42 points in 44 games this season.
“I keep progressing really, really well,” Tavares said after Friday’s practice. “I really just tried to narrow my focus, just get a little better every day. … Was very positive.
“Getting closer and closer.”
Knies, meanwhile, suffered an upper-body injury in a game against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Jan. 22 and has missed the last two games.
The second-round pick from 2021 has 31 points (18 goals, 13 assists) through 46 appearances in 2024-25.
“It felt good,” Knies said about returning to practice. “Felt I got all of my strength back and that I was ready to go. So I think I should be in for tomorrow.”
The Maple Leafs will take on the Oilers on Hockey Night in Canada at 7 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. MT. Catch the action on Sportsnet or stream on Sporstnet+.
