Toronto Maple Leafs forward Dakota Joshua has been absent from training camp, and while he was back on the ice Monday, head coach Jim Hiller is not confident in a swift return.
Dakota Joshua was not in the Maple Leafs' lineup for any of their split-squad games against the Montreal Canadiens on Saturday. This subsequently led to speculation surrounding the forward, although head coach Jim Hiller eventually revealed that the forward was going through something.
On Monday, Joshua was back at practice, but he was training with the Toronto Marlies group. Once again, sparking speculation that something is off.
Hiller then went on to say that Joshua is unlikely to be ready for the start of the regular season. Needless to say, not a ringing endorsement.
He's on his return to play and not quite there yet. So, we're getting close… won't get into specifics, but he's just been dealing with something.
Nothing happened recently… I don't know that (if he'll be back for opening night). I don't know that.
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All of this has led to questions surrounding Joshua's fitness and whether or not he came to training camp in shape. It also leads to questions about whether or not the Leafs even have a spot for him anymore.
Dakota Joshua loses his place in the Leafs lineup
Last season, Joshua was not the offensive talent they were hoping for. He struggled for much of the season, and he didn't provide very much grit either.
He remained in the bottom-six for much of the year, and it was impossible for him to get promoted. Subsequently, John Chayka was hired as general manager in the offseason, and numerous depth players were acquired.
Brandon Duhaime, Colton Sissions, Nick Paul, Jack Roslovic, and Teddy Blueger were all given contracts. These are the players who will make up the rest of the lineup, and Joshua's spot has effectively been lost.
With that said, one has to feel as though Joshua's days with the Leafs are numbered. He simply makes too much money for a player who more often than not is on track to be a healthy scratch.
Will the Toronto Maple Leafs get rid of Dakota Joshua?
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