Forward Frederik Gauthier ready to play if injured Auston Matthews isn’t
TORONTO — Frederik Gauthier was caught off guard when the Toronto Maple Leafs recalled him so early in the season, especially after spending part of his summer re-learning how to walk.
The 22-year-old centre was injured in May while playing with the American Hockey League’s Toronto Marlies and was originally expected to miss up to six months after undergoing surgery on his hamstrings. But he returned ahead of schedule and was cleared to play with the Marlies in the second week in October.
A recent upper-body injury to star centre Auston Matthews has him back with the Leafs as depth.
“It was a long road back (but) it’s always nice to get the call,” Gauthier said Thursday after practice. “I haven’t played much, I came back when the season already started. I’m waiting for my chance and when I get it I’ll be ready.”