As if losing Ilya Mikheyev to a wrist laceration due to a skate cut in New Jersey wasn't bad enough for the Leafs, it appears as though another linchpin has gone down at the hands of the Devils.
The worst has been confirmed for Leafs heavy hitter Jake Muzzin, who was spotted leaving the Prudential Center with a significant limp on Friday night. Muzzin has a broken foot, due to a shot-block gone wrong and is expected to be sidelined for at least a few weeks.
-
Martin Marincin looks poised to slot in next to Justin Holl as the team's second pair against the Rangers on Saturday night.
Marincin will have big shoes to fill, no doubt, but the tandem of Marincin and Holl were absolutely pivotal in securing a Calder Cup for the Marlies in 2017-18.
Never underestimate a defensive pairing who are familiar with one another.
Mikheyev's injury still leaves a vacancy up top, and it looks as though Adam Brooks will claim a roster spot, at least for tonight's contest as he makes his debut against against the Rangers at Scotiabank Arena.
Brooks is a former 4th round draft pick in 2016 (92nd overall), has 16 points through 20 games with the AHL Toronto Marlies this season.
The Leafs brass have been impressed by Brooks' attitude and work ethic and after two recent call-ups that did not result in immediate game-action, it looks as though Brooks will get his chance to play this evening.
-
