Will Komarov's Return Cost Johnsson His Spot?
"The Toronto Maple Leafs have not had many dilemmas when it comes to their roster this season, but they may have one heading into the playoffs.
Injured forward Leo Komarov will be returning to the lineup soon and it looks like it will come at the expense of rookie Andreas Johnsson. Head coach Mike Babcock was asked if he will be able to find a spot for Johnsson when Komarov draws back in.
«Maybe I don't,» Babcock replied, per Maple Leafs Hot Stove. «I can tell you Leo is going in for sure. We need the heavy body and the penalty killer. He's a man. But that's just the way it is. But I think Johnny has been real good.»
There is little doubt that Babcock is a fan of Johnsson and it isn't just because he says that he's been good. It shows in Johnsson's playing time and usage since being recalled from the American Hockey League. Johnsson has been playing on both the penalty kill and power play and has been on the ice late in close games. This is not something Babcock does with all of his young players, so it shows that he trusts Johnsson.
The Stanley Cup playoffs are a different beast than the regular season so Babcock's trust will likely get Johnsson some playing time. "
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