Sheldon Keefe reveals that one of his top forwards is unlikely to play in Game 1, another is a game-time decision
Sunday afternoon, the Leafs took part in their final practice prior to the start of the 2022 Stanley Cup Playoffs. After practice, Leafs head coach Sheldon Keefe provided an update on Michael Bunting and Ondrej Kase, both of whom wore regular jerseys at practice. Keefe revealed Bunting is doubtful for tomorrow, and Kase will be a game-time decision.
Michael Bunting was on the ice for the practice, his first since suffering the undisclosed injury eight days ago in Florida. However, he did not take part in some of the drills, and then left early. If he is not at 100% or close to it, the Leafs are probably right to allow him an extra day or so.
Bunting's regular spot on the top line, beside Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner, was filled at practice by Alex Kerfoot. Kerfoot has played with Matthews and Marner before, but really only on spot duty. Keefe has shown a willingness to make in-game adjustments this season, so if the trio does not work well together, I'd imagine that Keefe will make the changes that he has to make to give his team the best chance to take Game 1.
As for Kase, he skated on a line with captain John Tavares and speedy winger Ilya Mikheyev on Sunday at practice. Kase was also practicing on the second power play unit. The 26-year-old Czech has not played a game since suffering a concussion on March 19th against the Nashville Predators.
Kase provides valuable secondary scoring and is a strong defensive player. His tenacious style of game is well suited for the playoffs, however, given his history of injuries and the physical nature of the playoffs I do wonder how long he will be able to stay healthy.
| POLL | ||
MAI 1 | 442 ANSWERS Sheldon Keefe reveals that one of his top forwards is unlikely to play in Game 1, another is a game-time decision If healthy, what line should Kase play on? | ||
| 1st or 2nd | 101 | 22.9 % |
| 3rd | 279 | 63.1 % |
| 4th | 42 | 9.5 % |
| Healthy scratch | 20 | 4.5 % |
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