BREAKING: Leafs Choose Replacement for Michael Bunting

After being assessed for a match penalty for an illegal hit to the head of Lightning D Erik Cernak, Matthew Knies appears to be taking the place of Bunting in the Leafs lineup, being seen in practice wearing a white skater jersey, as opposed to the Grey jerseys for extra skaters.

According to NHL Insider Chris Johnston, it appears likely Bunting will be suspended, and that Knies will slot in for Game 2.

Bunting will be having a hearing with NHL Player Safety today, scheduled for 3PM, and could be out for a substantial amount of time.

Already down 1-0 to the Tampa Bay Lightning following a 7-3 blowout, Toronto loses a key force to their offense, but will hope the young Knies can help fill the lost void.