Maple Leafs' Morgan Rielly to Miss Final Games, Start Olympic Break Early Due to Injury
In a significant development for the Toronto Maple Leafs, defenseman Morgan Rielly will be sidelined for the team's final two games before the Olympic break, as announced by head coach Craig Berube on Monday in Calgary. This decision comes after Rielly sustained an upper-body injury during a game in Vancouver on Saturday, prompting the team to prioritize his recovery during the upcoming three-week hiatus.
Injury Details and Coach's Perspective
Berube revealed that Rielly's injury, which occurred in a mid-game mishap in Vancouver, has been a lingering issue that recently worsened. The coach emphasized the break's importance for Rielly's well-being, stating, "The break will do him a lot of good, a rest and getting healthy and fresh." Berube noted that Rielly briefly tested the injury in the tunnel but was unable to continue, highlighting the severity of the condition.
While Berube acknowledged that lingering injuries can affect performance, he refrained from directly linking it to Rielly's recent struggles on the ice. Rielly, a 31-year-old alternate captain, has faced public criticism for defensive lapses and holds a minus-17 rating this season, which ties for his second-worst full-season performance. However, Berube pointed out that team-wide issues early in the season contributed to this, not solely Rielly's play.
Impact on Team Lineup and Playoff Hopes
Rielly's absence leaves a notable gap in the Maple Leafs' defense, as he has been a consistent contributor with six straight seasons of 30 or more points and a key player on the top power-play unit. Oliver Ekman-Larsson is expected to step into that role, while Simon Benoit and Philippe Myers were slated to return to the lineup against the Flames. Marshall Rifai, who showed some rust in his first game this year in Vancouver, may also see adjustments as the team prepares for a quick turnaround against the Edmonton Oilers.
The Leafs are currently fighting to stay in playoff contention, sitting 10 points behind a wildcard spot. Berube announced that goaltender Joseph Woll will get consecutive starts to build on momentum from a recent shootout win that ended a six-game losing streak. This move underscores the team's urgency to capitalize on every opportunity as the season progresses.
Trade Uncertainty and Player Sentiments
Defenseman Brandon Carlo, Rielly's regular partner, has also been under scrutiny this season. Acquired from Boston in a high-profile trade involving prospect Fraser Minten and a conditional first-round pick, Carlo has struggled with injuries, including an ankle issue requiring surgery. Despite this, he expressed a desire to remain with the Leafs, telling The Hockey News, "I would definitely like to stay." His lower cap hit of $3.485 million, which extends through next season, could make him an attractive option for potential trades, especially with the trade deadline set for March 6 and a roster freeze during the Olympic break.
Prospect Spotlight: Fraser Minten's Rise
In a twist of irony, Fraser Minten, the prospect traded for Carlo, has been making waves with the Boston Bruins. Named NHL rookie of the month for January, Minten tallied eight goals, six assists, and a plus-12 rating in 14 games. Bruins coach Marco Sturm praised Minten's versatility, calling him a "steal" and noting his ability to play up and down the lineup at a young age. Minten's success adds a layer of complexity to the Leafs' trade decisions, as they weigh his potential against their current defensive needs.
As the Maple Leafs navigate these challenges, the focus remains on Rielly's recovery and the team's push for a playoff spot. With the Olympic break offering a chance to regroup, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these developments shape the remainder of the season.
