Comments from Sheldon Keefe seem to indicate that Michael Bunting will return for Game 6
With the Tampa/Toronto series reaching 6 games, we're getting to the point where the wear and tear is beginning to have an impact on the players. Sheldon Keefe had already confirmed on Friday that the Leafs were considering a number of lineup changes due to several injuries within the lineup, which could mean the imminent return of Michael Bunting.
Bunting was ejected from Game 1 after clipping Bolts defenseman Erik Cernak with a head shot and was subsequently suspended for 3 games as a result. He has been patiently waiting for his chance to get back into the lineup, having watched Games 2, 3, 4 and 5 from the press box. On Friday, Keefe talked about the effect that re-adding Bunting to the lineup could have on the team.
"He'd bring energy. In both how he plays and also the fact he hasn't played. As the series goes on, it weighs on everybody, the grind that it is. So having a guy who hasn't played (since Game 1) come in can give us a boost."
Bunting revealed this week just how tough it's been on him to have to watch from the press box, but reiterated that he's just going to do whatever he can for the team and stay ready for when he's called upon again. At this point, all signs point towards that call coming tomorrow night in Tampa.
