The Toronto Maple Leafs are grappling with numerous injuries. Head coach Sheldon Keefe shared updates on several team members as they approach the final games of the regular season and get ready for the playoffs. A number of players were absent from Monday’s practice, raising concerns about their availability for the upcoming games.
First off, forward Max Domi is slated to miss the final two games of the regular season because of an undisclosed injury. Coach Keefe noted that while Domi’s injury has been a recurring issue that worsened slightly in recent outings, it is not expected to sideline him for the playoffs. Domi has had a significant impact this season, particularly after moving up to the first line with Auston Matthews and Tyler Bertuzzi, accumulating 47 points in 80 games, including 37 assists at even strength.
In another development, Bobby McMann will also be sidelined for the last two regular-season games due to a lower-body injury, and his status for the first playoff game against the Panthers remains in question. He sustained the injury during a recent game against the Detroit Red Wings.
Winger Calle Järnkrok’s availability for Game 1 is still uncertain as he recovers from a hand injury. Järnkrok, who has been out of play since mid-March, is currently being evaluated on a day-to-day basis for his potential return to the lineup.
The Maple Leafs’ defensive lineup has also been impacted by injuries.
Defensively, Joel Edmundson’s ability to play in the upcoming match against the Florida Panthers hinges on a medical evaluation. Edmundson, who joined the Leafs at the trade deadline, has been dealing with an undisclosed injury for much of his tenure with the team. He did participate in Monday’s practice, however. Coach Keefe remarked, “We’ll see where he’s at tomorrow just to be sure, but practice today was a positive sign for him.”
With Domi and McMann sidelined for the remaining regular-season games and Järnkrok’s participation still in doubt, the Leafs’ bottom-six forward lineup is significantly weakened. Edmundson’s status for the game will be decided closer to the start time.
It is thought that the decision to rest some players is largely precautionary, aimed at ensuring that most, if not all, are fit and ready for the playoffs.
