Sheldon Keefe Makes Major Lineup Changes Ahead Of Leafs vs Devils Game

Maple Leafs reporter Mark Masters was at the team's practice this morning. He noted the team's lines, likely the same ones they will use tonight against the New Jersey Devils. There are some noteworthy omissions. Mitch Marner remains out as he continues to deal with a high-ankle sprain. Additionally, defenseman Morgan Rielly was absent from practice entirely.

While Marner continues to improve, the team's blueline continues to take hits. Sheldon Keefe confirmed after practice that Joel Edmundson is out tonight and Morgan Rielly is a game-time decision. Assuming neither play, it appears as though Simon Benoit and Connor Timmins will slot back into the lineup, forming the team's bottom pair. It also seems that Noah Gregor will return to the lineup, replacing Ryan Reaves.

The Maple Leafs are exactly middle of the pack in terms of remaining strength of schedule, giving them an edge over teams like the Detroit Red Wings and Boston Bruins. It is unlikely that the team will catch Boston for the second spot in the Atlantic Division, but not entirely impossible. A win against the disappointing Devils would go a long way in making that possibility more realistic.

Source MapleLeafsDaily: Leafs head coach Sheldon Keefe forced to make changes due to injury