What Happened
The Toronto Maple Leafs will be without two defenders for their Sunday matchup against the New Jersey Devils. Head coach Jim Hiller stated that Morgan Rielly is sidelined due to a lower-body injury sustained during Saturday's game against Montreal. Additionally, veteran Chris Tanev is resting for planned maintenance following an upper-body issue from October. Hiller indicated that Tanev may be managed similarly on future back-to-back nights.
Key Details
- Morgan Rielly exited Saturday's game in the second period with a lower-body injury.
- Chris Tanev is being managed carefully after an upper-body injury in October.
- Defenceman Dakota Mermis will step into the lineup for Rielly.
- Forward Cole McWard will take Tanev's place in the lineup.
- Rielly has recorded 12 assists in 18 games this season.
- Tanev has one assist in nine games this season.
What It Means
The absence of Rielly, who has been a key offensive contributor on the blue line, forces a significant defensive adjustment. McWard's inclusion marks his first NHL action of the season, providing a fresh option for Toronto's forward group while the team manages veteran workload.
What's Next
Toronto will face the New Jersey Devils on Sunday night with Mermis and McWard in the lineup. The team will monitor Rielly's lower-body injury and Tanev's recovery for upcoming schedules.