Auston Matthews' lingering wrist injury is affecting the superstar's play and how the club is deploying him since his return to the lineup, Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Sheldon Keefe said Monday.
"We've moved him around on the power play as a result of that," Keefe said, according to NHL.com. "He's not looking as comfortable when he's shooting, but he's showing he's very good in a lot of other areas.
"It doesn't seem to affect his ability to handle the puck or pass the puck. ... He's found ways to generate chances and shots, he's made plays for his linemates. He's brought a lot of positive things to us."
Matthews missed two games last week with an injury Keefe said has been bothering the forward all season. The 23-year-old hasn't recorded a point since returning, but he's fired 15 shots on goal over three contests.
The four-time All-Star says the injury is still healing.
"It's been all right," Matthews said. "Still need to progress it a bit. But we've got this week here and got some rest coming up next week, so hopefully the rest can get it feeling better. Definitely would like to see it heal a bit."
Matthews ranks sixth in the NHL in points (31) and first in goals (18) despite missing time and his recent slump.
The Maple Leafs play their next game Tuesday evening versus the Winnipeg Jets.
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