Toronto Maple Leafs forward Bo Groulx was supposed to be in the lineup against the Utah Mammoth, but head coach Jim Hiller ultimately changed his mind.
Bo Groulx was going to play on the fourth line with Teddy Blueger and Brandon Duhaime today as the Leafs try to finish off their Southwest road trip in style.
However, right before game time, head coach Jim Hiller decided to dress seven defensemen instead, alongside 11 forwards. This took Groulx out of the lineup, while giving Marshall Rifai a chance to get into the lineup.
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It was a tough look for Groulx, although if you have paid attention to his play as of late, you would realize that this is probably for the best.
Bo Groulx's underwhelming start
In five games so far this season, Groulx has recorded a grand total of zero points. Sure, he is playing in the bottom six, but this is not the production you want to see.
Last season, he played 13 games for the Leafs and ended up with five points, which at least signalled that he could be a solid contributor on offense.
Unfortunately, when you zoom out on his career, it becomes clear that he is just not producing at the level you would want from someone who is a former second-round pick.
In 83 NHL games, he has just 10 career points. This dates back to his time with the Anaheim Ducks, where he was given more chances to prove himself.
At 26 years old, the Leafs need Groulx to be a contributor now. Developing in the AHL just isn't an option any longer. It's either he's good enough for the team, or he's not.
This recent decision from Hiller sends a message. A message that could be sent up to the front office as John Chayka explores various trades around the NHL.
If Groulx is not going to be the player the Leafs bargained for, perhaps now is the time to make a move and find a team that would be more suited towards his current situation.
Do you believe the Toronto Maple Leafs should move on from Bo Groulx?
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