Maple Leafs Key Defenseman Absent from Practice, Jani Hakanpaa Steps In

Practice took place for Toronto on Tuesday, an optional one that was widely attended by everyone except for one player, that being defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson, who was absent due to an illness.

Craig Berube wasn't too concerned though, stating it was just him feeling a bit under the weather, much like Matt Murray earlier.

So in his absence, the team made a surprising call and put oft-injured defenseman Jani Hakanpaa with Simon Benoit, giving the towering Finn a chance to get some reps.

There's zero indication that this means Hakanpaa will play in the playoffs, but given that the team also has Dakota Mermis and Philippe Myers on the squad, they might want to give him a look just in case.

The loss of Ekman-Larsson hurts the Maple Leafs given that he's not only brought some solid offensive production, but a grittiness and unspoken mean streak that helps to balance Florida's antics.

So far this postseason, the veteran has four points in 10 games (2G, 2A) while adding 11 blocks, 15 hits, and six PIM in 19:15 TOI.

Hakanpaa would certainly bring a new identity to the team if he were to play, adding not only size, but that intimidation factor that might scare the Panthers and whoever else they might come across, something OEL is known for as well.

But it's more of a question about if Hakanpaa can actually continue his career. He was injured to start the year, played two games, then hasn't played since.

He was scheduled to suit up for Team Finland at the 4 Nations Face-Off injury concerns left him to miss the tournament; something that hit him hard.

Signed in the offseason as part of Brad Treliving's revamped defenseman contingent, things didn't start off great as the team decided to only give him a one-year deal as opposed to the original two.

That was a brilliant move in hindsight considering how strict Toronto's cap is, and how little he's done (though no fault of his own).

Hakanpaa wasn't hopeful about how things were progressing, and while it's great to see him practicing, it feels like it won't lead to much, though I could be drastically wrong.

While Ekman-Larsson will no doubt be back in game action on Wednesday for the fifth game of Round Two, it's positive to see Jani Hakanpaa taking part in the festivities.

Even if he can't participate in game, at least Craig Berube is doing his best to give him every chance to get reps before his body doesn't let him anymore.