Conor Timmins discusses his fresh start with the Leafs
Injuries have hampered newly acquired Conor Timmins' development and ability to earn a full-time roster spot in the NHL since being drafted 32nd overall in 2017. He has played just 8 total games since the start of the 2021-2022 season, but recently completed a 5-game conditioning stint with the Tucson Roadrunners.
Timmins is "100% healthy and ready to go" said Kyle Dubas on Wednesday, after acquiring the 6'2, 200 pound right-shot blueliner. Leafs head coach Sheldon Keefe said they don't plan to rush Timmins into the lineup and will allow him to get settled and learn the Leafs' systems this week. Keefe wants to set Timmins up for success, so ensuring that he's comfortable will be key.
Timmins joined the Leafs in Minnesota on Thursday and took part in his first practice with his new club where he skated as an extra defenseman. Following his first go-around with the team, which Keefe called more of a "morning skate" than a routine practice, Timmins had a chance to speak with the media. Here's what he had to say when asked about the rocky start to his NHL career.
"Everyone's going to go through adversity at some point in their life & mine seems to have piled up over the last couple years, but I feel great now. I have a new lease on life & a positive mentality. I'm ready to go," said Timmins on Thursday.
Perhaps a fresh start and being reunited with Rasmus Sandin and Kyle Dubas is exactly what the doctor ordered for the previously highly-touted second round pick. Timmins will likely draw into the lineup Monday or Wednesday next week as the Leafs are just beginning a four-game road trip and are in the midst of playing 5 games in 7 days. Having said that, I'm sure we'll have some more clarity on the situation this weekend.
| POLL | ||
NOVEMBRE 25 | 125 ANSWERS Conor Timmins discusses his fresh start with the Leafs Are the Leafs right to take their time working Timmins into the lineup? | ||
| No, we need him now. Let's go! | 28 | 22.4 % |
| Yes, setting him up for success is key | 97 | 77.6 % |
| List of polls | ||
