Key update released on Toronto's Matthew Knies

The Toronto Maple Leafs have been without the services of upbeat rookie forward Matthew Knies, who provided an instant impact upon his insertion into the lineup for Game 2 of what would be their eventually successful Round 1 Stanley Cup Playoffs series against the Tampa Bay Lightning.

However, Toronto's luck has turned backwards against the other National Hockey League team in the Sunshine State, as the Florida Panthers currently enjoy a three games to none lead over them in Round 2. What's worse, Knies has been absent since midway through Game 2 after a controversial incident with Panthers forward Sam Bennett, who drove him into the boards and then tackled him to the ice.

Knies was confirmed to have a concussion, and was listed as not expected to return to the series by head coach Sheldon Keefe. Meanwhile, Bennett avoided any supplemental discipline from the NHL Department of Player Safety. 

But for Knies, he was seen yesterday on the ice without skates practicing his puck handling skills:

Game 4 between the Leafs and Panthers will get underway tonight from FLA Live Arena starting at 7:00 PM EST.