Leafs confirm injury to a top-six forward
Prior to puck drop last night, it was revealed Tyler Bertuzzi was a bit under the weather and would be a game-time decision. Bertuzzi ended up playing, but was shuffled down the lineup in favour of Calle Jarnkrok sliding into a top six role following the first period.
After the game, Sheldon Keefe confirmed that not only was Bertuzzi not feeling well, but he is also dealing with a nagging injury. Keefe did not elaborate on the type of injury, but did reveal that Bertuzzi may need a game or two off.
Given Bertuzzi's injury history, it isn't a surprise that he will have to miss a game or two to let some bumps and bruise recover. It is surprising that it has to happen just 4 games into the season, though. Bertuzzi played in just 50 games last season between the Wings and Bruins due to injury, scoring just 8 times and registering 30 points.
With limited cap space and the ability to carry just 21 players, the Leafs would have to send down Simon Benoit in order to recall a forward if they don't want to go 11F/7D. Depending on how Sheldon Keefe wants to set up his lineup, we could see Bobby McMann, Nick Robertson or Pontus Holmberg recalled for a pair of games while Bertuzzi is sidelined. It won't take long for us to find out given that the Leafs have a game against Tampa on Saturday.
| POLL | ||
OCTOBRE 20 | 213 ANSWERS Leafs confirm injury to a top-six forward Who should play in Tyler Bertuzzi's spot on the Leafs' top line if he needs a few games off? | ||
| Matthew Knies | 116 | 54.5 % |
| Calle Jarnkrok | 24 | 11.3 % |
| Max Domi | 59 | 27.7 % |
| Other | 14 | 6.6 % |
| List of polls | ||
