Maple Leafs need a simple plan to manage their injury woes

Setback after setback. The Toronto Maple Leafs learned on Monday that Brandon Carlo's expected return might take even longer than initially thought.

According to what head coach Craig Berube told the press, the defenseman suffered a setback in his recovery and has returned to Toronto for evaluation. 

Beyond Carlo, the recent list of absences has affected key names in different areas of the roster, forcing lineup shuffles and day-to-day changing of roles. The team's chemistry has been affected by these constant setbacks. It is very difficult, if not impossible, to reduce high-danger chances against without a stable base on the blue line.

Maple Leafs need a plan to handle these setbacks

For now, more weight is falling on offensive-minded players who must mind their own end while also pushing the puck forward. Morgan Rielly and Oliver Ekman-Larsson can handle heavy minutes, but they perform better when they are not overloaded. 

Berube may rely on some roster rotations or even emergency call-ups. That will help. However, he must be aware that this will not save the season.

Injuries are not a choice, but their impact can be mitigated with structure and role clarity. Toronto has shown flashes of high-level and character, but these woes have delayed its consolidation. 

Once the blue line is fit, Berube will need to define pairings and give them consistency. The plan should be simple. Fewer turnovers and better breakouts. Tuesday's 4-1 road win over the Florida Panthers is a step in the right direction.