Sheldon Keefe comments on the likelihood of Matthew Knies actually getting into Game 5 lineup
After being knocked around and wrestled to the ice hard by Florida's Sam Bennett in what was certainly not a hockey play, Matthew Knies left Game 2 and did not return. Not long after, he was diagnosed with a concussion. He was immediately made unavailable for Games 3 and 4 with Sheldon Keefe also saying he was likely out for the series.
Today, Sheldon Keefe provided a somewhat positive update on Knies' health status. Keefe said that Knies has "improved a lot" but has not skated since the early moments of Game 2. Additionally, Keefe confirmed that Knies is very unlikely to play in Game 5 tomorrow, but given that Game 6 (if necessary) could be on Sunday or even Monday, there is a chance that the extra couple of days could give Knies enough recovery time to at least be upgraded to a game-time decision.
Knies had lived up to every bit of hype since leaving the University of Minnesota at the end of the season and has provided the Leafs with a valuable power forward with a significant amount of skill - something the Leafs have not had in a very long time.
While it does suck that Knies won't be ready to go for Game 5, it's encouraging that Keefe and the Leafs seem to be pleased with how he's recovering. The next step for Knies will be getting back onto the ice for a solo skate. Next, it will be about getting him back on the practice sheet in a non-contact sweater and seeing how he responds before clearing him to return to action without restrictions or limitations.
| POLL | ||
MAI 11 | 31 ANSWERS Sheldon Keefe comments on the likelihood of Matthew Knies actually getting into Game 5 lineup Will Knies return at some point in this series? | ||
| Yes | 12 | 38.7 % |
| No | 13 | 41.9 % |
| They'll be eliminated before he has the chance | 6 | 19.4 % |
| List of polls | ||
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