Maple Leafs to Receive Significant Boost at Forward Position on Monday

As we approach Friday's trade deadline, the Leafs are very much in the market for a centre, as reported by several credible NHL Insiders over the course of the last few weeks.

The Leafs have been linked to the likes of Scott Laughton, who recently trolled everyone on the internet with a "Last Supper" photo, suggesting that his time in Philly is coming to an end. They've also been linked to Blues captain Brayden Schenn, though the asking price from St. Louis is reportedly sky-high.

Thankfully, even if the Leafs fail to acquire one of these two players, they'll be getting a boost at the forward position regardless, as TSN's Chris Johnston is reporting that Calle Jarnkrok may make his season debut for the Leafs on Monday against San Jose.

Jarnkrok has been out of action since the pre-season, and was forced to undergo sports hernia surgery earlier this season. Now, finally healthy, Jarnkrok certainly adds some firepower in the middle of the Leafs' lineup.

The Swedish utility forward scored 20 goals for the Leafs just a pair of seasons ago, and can play up and down the lineup in a pinch. He can also play both wing and centre, which gives Craig Berube some options.

With Jarnkrok's return will come at least one roster move for the Maple Leafs. To be able to afford to re-add Jarnkrok's $2.1M cap hit to the active roster, the Leafs will first have to add another player to LTIR or send someone down to the American Hockey League.

Surprisingly, even with Jarnkrok having missed the entire season, the Leafs will not be assigning him to the AHL on a conditioning loan. This represents a huge vote of confidence from the organization, who clearly believes that Jarnkrok can help this team immediately upon his return.