Jack Campbell's return revealed
In what feels like a scene out of a movie, Jack Campbell's return comes just when the Leafs goaltending situation is in its darkest hour. The Leafs are currently dealing with injuries to Petr Mrazek, Joseph Woll, and an illness with Keith Petruzzelli. The Marlies are using emergency goalies on Amateur Tryouts as they've run out of signed goalies to dress. However, in the nick of time, the hero returns.
As you can tell, I'm happy to see Jack Campbell back healthy. TSN analyst and former Leaf Carlo Colaiacovo reported on Thursday morning that Erik Kallgren will start between the pipes tonight against the Winnpeg Jets with Michael Hutchinson as his backup, while Campbell is expected to start against the Philadelphia Flyers Saturday night at Wells Fargo Center.
Campbell started the season on a hot streak that had him on pace for one of the best seasons by a Leafs goaltender since, well, ever. Unfortunately, injury and confidence issues derailed him from December onward. Having a fully recovered and refocused Jack Campbell guarding the goal for the Leafs is going to be key to any success they may have this season. We don't need the insane run of play he was on in November, but we do need better than what we've had from him since. I believe Campbell is capable of taking the Leafs deep into the playoffs as long as he can stay out of his own head. As a goalie, its no easy task to stay centered and focused under pressure.
As I mentioned, for tonight's game we will see the return of Michael Hutchinson to the Leafs. Hutch will backup Kallgren for one game before heading back to the Marlies. Campbell will be given the night off, which is a smart move by head coach Sheldon Keefe. The worst thing to do to a goalie trying to regain his form is to throw him into the net unexpectedly and ahead of schedule.
I think I speak for all of us when I say I am glad to see Campbell back to full health and hope to see him back to form come Thursday.
