Max Domi's Status Confirmed Ahead of Wednesday's Game Against the Predators

Max Domi has been injured with a lower-body ailment and has been on the IR retroactive to Nov. 16, and while he's struggled this season, he's still a big part of their team and Toronto is committed to the son of their former beloved enforcer.

But with his presumed return Wednesday, it's been reported by David Alter of The Hockey News that Domi was seen in an extras jersey,, signaling that Domi is more than likely out for Wednesday's game.

It's unfortunate for Domi as he's trying to regain his form after a cold spell has led him to score no points after having six in his first six games, and hasn't scored a goal since last April.

Craig Berube was hopeful to get Domi back, and while he is known for making last minute changes, it might be too quick to bring Domi back.

While the Maple Leafs could certainly enjoy the offensive potential of Domi in the lineup, the team has been strong in his absence. Toronto recently saw the return of Auston Matthews and Matthew Knies; both men scoring against Chicago on Monday in a huge boost to the offense.

Domi's had a rollercoaster season so far, going from being on his head coach's favorite line with Bobby McMann and William Nylander, to being almost invisible on the ice and making no impact whatsoever.

It's unknown if Domi's injury flared up earlier and caused him to struggle and he finally got fed up enough to get healthy. But his results past the two week season hasn't been great whatsoever.

He's not offensively producing, a nightmare defensively, and Toronto can't afford to force Domi back in especially when things are going so well. Domi needs to impress upon his return and prove to Toronto they didn't waste money on his extension.

If Domi's lack of offense came because of a nagging injury that's understandable, and if he can come back and explode offensively it's a huge plus to a surging Maple Leafs offense. However, if he is healthy and still isn't performing then Toronto may need to look at seeing if there are any prospective buyers for Domi.

In closing, Max Domi's return to the Toronto Maple Leafs isn't as soon as his head coach anticipated but that's not the worst thing, as giving Domi a bit more time to make sure he's 100% can only be a positive as Toronto continues to try and win the Atlantic Division and have a strong playoff push.