One step forward, two steps back.
Just when you think the Toronto Maple Leafs are on the path to full health, the roster takes a few more hits to critical pieces.
Auston Matthews (lower body) is a game-time decision Tuesday versus the New Jersey Devils after taking a shot off the foot during Sunday’s overtime loss in Detroit. The captain finished that game, but his condition worsened and he did not participate in Tuesday’s morning skate.
That Matthews’ injury arrives amid the centre’s best stretch of hockey all season makes for ill timing.
William Nylander (lower body) remains day-to-day and is expected to miss a second straight game.
Chris Tanev (lower body) is also out after suffering an injury Sunday, one separate from the upper-body injuries that have limited the shutdown defenceman to just 11 games this season. Clarity on the severity of Tanev’s latest injury is expected later this week.
Most concerning of all is the status of Dakota Joshua.
The power forward sustained a kidney-related injury during the Detroit game and was unfit to travel home with the club to Toronto.
“Joshua’s still in Detroit,” head coach Craig Berube informed reporters Tuesday. “Whether he took a hit or went into the boards, it’s his kidney. It’s got blood and everything, so we need to see where he’s at, too.”
His injury came from either a check or a hard hit into the boards during the club’s 3-2 overtime loss against the Detroit Red Wings on Sunday.
The injury bug has contributed to the Maple Leafs’ tumble to the Atlantic Division basement.
Seven teams stand between Toronto and a wild-card spot.
“We talked this morning, and everybody needs to step up, for sure,” Berube said. “We might have a couple of different younger guys in there tonight, but the team game is what it’s all about for us.
“When you have injuries like this — we don’t know if Matthews is playing tonight — we need a really strong team game tonight. The team game can get you through it.”
Misfortune to the regulars should open another opportunity for prospect Jacob Quillan, who was recalled from the Toronto Marlies.
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The 23-year-old centre has yet to register a point through three NHL games but has 23 points in his 26 AHL games this season.
“I love Quillan’s energy and his speed. He’s a young kid, but he could come in and provide what we need tonight, and going forward,” Berube said.
“He’s getting close to being an NHL player and a full-time one with his ability. I mean, it’s a good opportunity for him tonight.”
An opportunity that only comes out of necessity and at a hefty cost.
Maple Leafs projected lineup Tuesday vs. New Jersey Devils:
Knies – Tavares – Domi
Cowan – Roy – Robertson
Maccelli – Laughton – McMann
Lorentz – Quillan – Järnkrok
Rielly – Myers
McCabe – Ekman-Larsson
Benoit – Stecher
Woll
Hildeby
