The Leafs are going to have a different looking lineup for tonight’s game against the Blue Jackets based on this recent roster update.
No surprise to see that Joseph Woll is back in the NHL, especially since Matt Murray is likely going to be missing some time once again.
Murray exited Sunday’s game against the Red Wings late in the first period after a collision with Lucas Raymond resulted in the goalie hitting the back of his head on the ice. Given his lengthy injury history and numerous prior concussions, the Leafs don’t want to take any chances and Murray may not play again for the remainder of the regular season depending on his injury diagnosis.
Based on the fact that Ilya Samsonov essentially played two straight games this past weekend, Woll will likely get the start tonight and should have the backup position locked down the rest of the way.
Radim Zohorna’s trial run has come to an end after two games and he made the most of his limited action. He scored in his Leafs debut and was very noticeable at both ends of the ice (not just because he is six-foot-six). The players and coaching staff were impressed by Zohorna’s play so I would imagine he has earned himself a longer look later on.
Hun returning to the Marlies likely signals that Ryan O’Reilly is set to make his return to the lineup following a month long absence. Him being reinstated should do wonders to improve the Leafs’ depth and will grant Sheldon Keefe a chance to once again experiment with the lines.
Combined with Noel Acciari nearing a return himself, the Leafs are close to icing their optimal lineup for Game 1 of the playoffs.
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