Leafs Make Shocking Announcement Regarding Matt Murray After First NHL Game in 628 Days

It was an emotional evening for Matt Murray on Friday after the veteran netminder not only made his NHL return after nearly two years, but picked up his first win since March of 2023.

Murray fought back tears during his post-game comments, and it was obvious how much the win meant to the 30-year-old. His teammates also understood the significance of the win, which was evident when Max Domi passed Murray the player of the game belt.

Much to the surprise of most within Leafs Nation, the team has sent Murray back to the Marlies. However, there is a good reason for the decision.

According to David Alter of The Hockey News, Murray is being sent down to help the Leafs manage his waiver exemption timeline.

After having passed through waivers before the start of the season, Murray can come up and be sent down to the Marlies without having to clear waivers for 10 games or 30 days.

Sending Murray back to the AHL tonight, when he is not expected to play, will mean that Murray will not burn an additional day on the NHL roster.

In a corresponding move, the Leafs have also recalled rookie netminder Dennis Hildeby. The 6'7 Swedish netminder is expected to back up Joseph Woll tonight against the New York Islanders.

The Leafs are doing their best to get creative to buy themselves as much time as possible to maximize their waiver exemption window for Murray in the absence of Anthony Stolarz, who is expected to miss the next 4-6 weeks.