Tavares talks about his health status ahead of Wednesday's season opener
The regular season begins on Wednesday and after another wave of roster cuts on Saturday, the final rosters is taking shape. With John Tavares suffering an oblique injury at the beginning of camp it appeared as though he was in line to miss the first few games of the season. However, this past week, Tavares was back on the ice ahead a little ahead of schedule, which had many wondering whether or not his timeline to return had been altered.
The Leafs captain didn't blow anyone away with his stat line last season, as he scored 27 goals and 76 points in 79 games - a far from cry from his 47 goals and 88 points in his first season with the Maple Leafs in 2018-19. Nevertheless, he is a very important part of the team and the Leafs need him back as soon as possible.
On Saturday, following Leafs practice, Tavares was asked about his recovery and whether or not he'd be good to go in time for Wednesday's matchup in Montreal. Here's what he had to say:
It doesn't sound too likely, given Tavares' comments, that he'll be ready to go in time for Wednesday. It's not all bad news though, as Tavares' injury opens up a roster spot for one of Pontus Holmberg, Adam Gaudette or Denis Malgin to start the season with the Leafs.
After a disastrous injury in the opening round of the playoffs a couple seasons ago, both the Leafs and Tavares understand the importance of not rushing back, being as healthy as possible and understanding that the team is good enough to make a run with Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, William Nylander, and Morgan Rielly at the forefront, so taking it easy is best for both parties.
Nevertheless it sounds like he should make a return sooner rather than later and it wouldn't be a shock to see him lace up his skates sometime within the first 3-6 games.
| POLL | ||
OCTOBRE 9 | 420 ANSWERS Tavares talks about his health status ahead of Wednesday's season opener Will John Tavares surpass his 88-point 2018-19 season this year? | ||
| No | 259 | 61.7 % |
| Yes | 161 | 38.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
