“I wasn’t told I was starting”: Auston Matthews clears the air surrounding Maple Leafs’ starting lineup confusion

Auston Matthews clears the air surrounding Maple Leafs' starting lineup confusion. (Image Source: Imagn)

Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews addressed the confusion surrounding the team's lineup before the game against the Chicago Blackhawks on Monday.

The Leafs had reportedly intended to start the game with the 20-year-old Fraser Minten at center, but Matthews' name was announced in the arena before the game, leading to uncertainty among players, coaches and fans.

To clarify the situation, Auston Matthews explained:

"They announced my name, but I wasn't told I was starting. I think it happened like a week ago where a team got a penalty for something like that, so just to be safe ... I went out there & started."