What Happened
Jake McCabe avoided a serious injury after Kent Johnson's stick cut him near the left eye during Toronto's 6-2 win over Columbus on Tuesday. Johnson was assessed a double minor for high-sticking on the first-period play near the Maple Leafs' blueline, and McCabe left the game without returning. Speaking Thursday, McCabe said he does not fault Johnson for an accident but believes players need to control their sticks better.
Key Details
- Johnson had control of his stick near the Toronto blueline when the blade caught McCabe under his visor.
- McCabe covered his eye and left the ice; he did not return to Tuesday's game.
- Johnson was given a double minor for high-sticking.
- McCabe appeared Thursday with a bruise, a broken blood vessel and a patched cut over his left eye.
- McCabe said he has taken several high sticks in recent games, mostly from younger players.
- Defence partner Darren Raddysh said McCabe is probably not going to miss a game.
What It Means
The injury looked severe at the time, but Toronto's top-four defenceman appears to have escaped without lasting damage. McCabe's comments point to a broader concern about stick control among younger players, while his availability keeps the Maple Leafs' blue line intact for a demanding part of the schedule.
What's Next
McCabe was expected to dress for Toronto's Thursday game against the New York Rangers. No supplemental discipline for Johnson has been announced beyond the double minor assessed on the play.