The Toronto Maple Leafs are navigating a challenging period with multiple injuries impacting key players. Coach Craig Berube addressed the situation on Wednesday, providing updates on several players, some of which were encouraging, while others painted a grimmer picture.
The most concerning news revolves around forward Dakota Joshua, who suffered a kidney injury with internal bleeding during Sunday's game against the Detroit Red Wings. Joshua remains in Detroit for observation and treatment, with Berube stating that he will miss significant time. The team is closely monitoring his condition, and he is expected to return to Toronto shortly, where he will be with his family.
Adding to the injury woes, defenseman Chris Tanev is also sidelined for an extended period. Tanev is dealing with a lower-body injury, unrelated to the upper-body issue that previously kept him out for nearly two months earlier this season. This is Tanev's second absence of at least 23 games this season. The team is still evaluating the next steps in his recovery, but Berube confirmed that the veteran defenseman will be out "a while". Tanev had only recently returned from injured reserve and played just three games, averaging over 20 minutes per night.
The Maple Leafs have already recalled defenseman Matt Benning and forward Jacob Quillan from the Toronto Marlies of the AHL. With Tanev and Joshua likely headed to injured reserve, the team will rely on depth players such as Philippe Myers and Troy Stecher. The potential return of Brandon Carlo from foot surgery could also provide a boost to the blue line.
Amidst the setbacks, there was some positive news. Captain Auston Matthews, who sustained a lower-body injury in the game against Detroit and missed Tuesday's game against the New Jersey Devils, skated again. While there is no confirmed timeline for his return, his presence on the ice is an encouraging sign. He blocked a shot in the second period and spent only a minute off the ice before returning to complete the game. Matthews has 27 points (15 goals, 12 assists) in 33 games this season.
Goaltender Anthony Stolarz was also on the ice for the first time since suffering his injury in November. While Berube stressed that there is still no timeline for Stolarz's return, his return to practice marks a significant step in his recovery.
The Maple Leafs, currently near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings, face a difficult challenge as they navigate these injuries. The absence of Tanev and Joshua, both key physical contributors, adds another layer of adversity during this critical part of the season.
