Max Domi Steps Away From Maple Leafs Practice Following Heartbreaking News

Suffice to say it's been a horrible start to training camp for Max Domi. First he is still dealing with an injury he suffered before camp opened up and while he was looking to get back on the ice, another terrible setback occurred.

Domi revealed yesterday that his grandfather had sadly passed away, and left a heartfelt tribute on his personal Instagram account. The hockey world rallied around Domi in support and there's no doubt that the team, coaches and everyone have his best interests in mind.

Which is why it's no surprise that GM Brad Treliving ended up informing the media that Domi would miss practice on Tuesday in order to attend the funeral of his grandfather.

The team no doubt has more than enough pieces to be able to give Domi enough time to mentally prepare himself to get back on the ice. With Toronto playing their second preseason game against Ottawa on Tuesday, we'll see names like Easton Cowan take his place.

It's a really frustrating time for Domi no doubt, but as always family comes first. Hopefully once he does get himself back on the ice it won't take long for him to get back into the swing of things, especially with the injury issues.

Expected to have a prominent role with the team this season on Auston Matthews' line, his performance and ability to support the captain is going to be crucial to the team's success, and eventually will need all his focus on making sure he can help out.

Domi is in the second year of his four-year extension he signed last summer.

In 74 games last year, he posted only 33 points (8 goals, 25 assists) with 76 PIM, though was a bright spot in the postseason with seven points in 13 games (4 goals, 3 assists).