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Toronto Maple Leafs Injured Update: John Tavares and Jake McCabe
The Toronto Maple Leafs faced another setback in their quest for a playoff berth as their star forward, John Tavares, exited practice early Wednesday following an awkward fall. This incident occurred during a power-play drill when Tavares stumbled along the boards.
Maple Leafs coach Craig Berube had no immediate updates on Tavares’s condition. Speaking at the team’s press conference, Berube stated, “Nothing yet, he’s being evaluated.” Clearly, the coach didn’t witness the incident directly, as it transpired behind the net. Nevertheless, he expressed optimism, adding, “He’s been a great player for us in a lot of areas, so hopefully he’s OK.”
Tavares, a key player for the Maple Leafs, leads the team with 42 points, comprising 20 goals and 22 assists, in 44 games. He also stands tied for the team lead with seven power-play goals this season. His continued absence could severely impact the team’s chances at winning games.
Jake McCabe Practices Again: Set to Face New Jersey Devils
On a more positive note, defenseman Jake McCabe returned to practice Wednesday, making him a strong contender to face the New Jersey Devils the following evening at 7 p.m. ET (TSN4, MSGSN2).
McCabe’s inclusion in practice was significant, considering he had been sidelined for the past four games due to an upper-body injury sustained during a fight with Philadelphia Flyers player Garnet Hathaway. Berube reported that McCabe looked good and paired him with Chris Tanev for the first time since the injury. “He looked good,” Berube commented. “I thought he had a good practice, he looked fine. We will see how he is tomorrow.”
Capturing McCabe’s perspective on his return, he stated, “It was good to be back out there with the fellas.” Noting that his return was a decision made by the coaching staff, he expressed a straightforward心态, saying, “I’m not going to make any lineup decisions for him. I felt good out there. It was unfortunate, we’ve all watched plenty enough games and seen situations like that, and unfortunately I was the one who took the brutal end of it.”
During Tuesday’s practice, defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson, who played alongside Tanev in the recent 4-1 loss to the Dallas Stars, had a new skating partner, Conor Timmins. Ekman-Larsson replaced the injured Simon Benoit, who was on the ice during practice as an extra defenseman.
Marshall Rifai Recalled from AHL
The Maple Leafs organized a move across leagues, recalling defenseman Marshall Rifai from the American Hockey League. While Rifai’s return brings him back to the NHL level, his role will likely be contingent on the needs of the team following Tavares’s injury and McCabe’s uncertain availability.
The health of players such as Tavares and McCabe holds significant importance for the Maple Leafs’ success this season. Tavares’s early exit for evaluation sends a concerning message to fans and analysts alike, emphasizing the critical nature of star players remaining fit and healthy.
In contrast, McCabe’s brisk return to the ice offers a glimmer of hope. His ability to regain momentum and contribute to the team remains essential as the competition within the Eastern Conference heats up.
While these developments highlight the ups and downs of NHL life, one thing remains constant: the loyalty and support of Maple Leafs fans. As the season progresses, both positive and negative news will continue to shape the team’s pursuit of glory.
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