Toronto Maple Leafs forward Dakota Joshua is injured with a core issue, and according to one connected reporter, the Leafs are set to give a chance to a Marlies star.
According to James Mirtle, it is very likely that Bo Groulx is going to start the season on the Toronto Maple Leafs, with Dakota Joshua being placed on either the IR or LTIR.
This would be a massive upgrade for the Marlies forward, who actually got 13 games with the Leafs last season, notching three goals and two assists for five points.
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In 78 NHL games between the Anaheim Ducks and the Toronto Maple Leafs, Groulx has just 10 points, although there was certainly some time that passed between starts.
Throughout his time in the AHL, Groulx has been a total stud. In a championship season with the Marlies, he had 52 points in 59 games, including 28 goals.
Furthermore, he was a productive member of the Calder Cup run, which just goes to show that the 26-year-old is excelling in his development.
Of course, there is no guarantee that Groulx actually gets into the starting lineup, but being projected to make the roster is certainly a step in the right direction.
What happens to Dakota Joshua?
If Joshua is placed on IR or LTIR, some conversations will have to be had behind the scenes regarding whether or not he belongs with the Maple Leafs long-term.
Given the additions general manager John Chayka made this summer, there has been discourse about whether or not Joshua's role is redundant.
Had it not been for the injury, it's been theorized that the Leafs would be shopping him around. Of course, waivers or a full-on buyout could very well be the next step forward.
It's a harsh reality for a player who came into Toronto last year with a ton of promise. Unfortunately, he just wasn't able to live up to the hype.
Do you believe Bo Groulx deserves a spot on the Toronto Maple Leafs?
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