Maple Leafs News & Rumours: Hlavaj, Joshua, Groulx, Valis & Sullivan

The Toronto Maple Leafs have a few interesting developments to sort through as the season moves along. Some encouraging signs are coming from the organization’s American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, where the Toronto Marlies are getting important contributions from players who could eventually help Toronto. A recent comeback win over the Hershey Bears offered another example of that depth, with goaltender Samuel Hlavaj playing a significant role.

The Maple Leafs also have a roster decision to consider at the NHL level. Dakota Joshua’s return from injury has forced the Maple Leafs to make room, and they’ve placed Bo Groulx on waivers. It’s a reminder that opportunities can be difficult to hold onto in Toronto, particularly for players trying to establish themselves in a crowded forward group. Here’s a closer look at both developments.

Samuel Hlavaj Gives the Marlies a Timely Lift in Comeback Win

The Marlies needed help from their goaltender on Friday, and Samuel Hlavaj delivered. Toronto came from behind to beat Hershey 5-3, completing the comeback against a Bears team that had won five of its previous six games. Hershey’s penalty kill had also been operating at an impressive 89%, making the Marlies’ power-play contribution all the more important.

Hlavaj was a big reason the Marlies were still in position to win. His second-period work kept Toronto close, and he finished with 28 saves on 31 shots to earn his fourth consecutive victory. Important moments came at the other end, too. After Hlavaj made a brilliant save, Toronto quickly turned defence into offence, with Borya Valis racing down the right side and beating Cal Petersen with an over-the-shoulder shot. The Marlies also did an excellent job on the penalty kill, limiting Hershey to just three shots during that stretch.