Sheldon Keefe Sending Mixed Signals Regarding Important Lineup Decision

Status of Justin Holl being hinted at

A Decision appears to have been made on Justin Holl headed into Game 6.

Holl has been chided by Leafs fans for his struggles in their playoff series against Tampa, having been on the ice for 14 of the Lightning's 19 Goals in the series, Holl being the scapegoat for the Leafs struggles to eliminate Tampa.

Now, with a spotlight on Holl's performance, it appears Justin Holl may be the odd man out for Game 6.


According to multiple reports, Holl is taking part in Toronto's optional skate this morning. However, Holl has not done so when playing in the series.


Leafs Defenseman Timothy Liljegren, who has been taking part in the optional skates, and has been sidelined on Toronto's roster, was not on the ice, signifying a potential insertion of Liljegren into the lineup in lieu of the chastised Justin Holl.


Leafs Head Coach Sheldon Keefe has stood by Holl's performance, despite criticism on social media, but said that Holl, as well as linemate Mark Giordano, need to be playing better.


Similar criticism has been held in parts of the Leafs social media ecosystem, with Holl being a frequent topic of ridicule over his perceived defensive liabilities from fans. However, Sheldon Keefe has stood by the veteran defenseman, who Keefe has also handed compliments over defensive well-doings in Holl's game.

While the lines for Game 6 have not been confirmed, it appears that there are still decisions being made, but in a series Toronto is desperate to close out, it appears a major change is now ready to come.