Toronto Maple Leafs defensemen Morgan Rielly and Chris Tanev will not be playing tonight as two AHL guys get some big-time opportunities against the Devils.
According to Mark Masters of TSN, Rielly is out with a lower-body injury that he sustained last night against the Montreal Canadiens.
Meanwhile, Chris Tanev's absence is planned maintenance, which makes sense when you take into consideration his recent injury history.
As for their replacements, Dakota Mermis and Cole McWard will be brought into the lineup and are being given huge opportunities in the process.
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For the Maple Leafs, this is still not the greatest news when you consider how defensive depth has been a real issue for them this season.
One of the big reasons why John Chayka wants the defensive core to get younger is because of the injuries to players like Tanev and Rielly. They aren't getting younger, and this could be an issue that lasts the entire season.
A desperate Maple Leafs team against the Devils
Going into this game against the New Jersey Devils, the Maple Leafs need a win. They have struggled over their last few games and clearly aren't playing their best hockey.
Last night's loss to the Montreal Canadiens was particularly bad. The score was close, but it was an effort that simply was not good enough against a historic rival.
The Atlantic Division is only getting better right now, and the Leafs are only falling behind. It makes tonight's game that much more important.
As for Rielly, it is unknown how long he is going to be out for. It is likely we will get that update later this week.
Stay tuned to Hockey Patrol for the latest news and updates concerning the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Do you believe Chris Tanev and Morgan Rielly being out will make the Leafs lose?
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