Maple Leafs Defenceman Jake McCabe Out Day-to-Day Following Panthers Collision
Less than two weeks until the playoffs start, the Maple Leafs are hoping Jake McCabe’s absence doesn’t derail their momentum. The defenceman left Wednesday’s 3-2 win over the Florida Panthers with an undisclosed injury, and is currently listed as day-to-day, according to coach Craig Berube.
“I can’t really comment on how long it’s going to be,” Berube said following practice Friday. “It’s hard to sit here and say ‘Oh, we can replace him.’ ”
The coach indicated there was no clear indication of how the injury occurred during the game, adding to the concern surrounding McCabe’s playing status.
McCabe, who has been concussed earlier in the season, was playing close to 25 minutes before being forced to leave the ice. Berube elected to bolster the defensive pairings for Saturday’s game against Columbus, with Phillip Myers coming into the lineup. Simon Benoit paired with Morgan Rielly.
“They have big guys who score,” Berube noted prior to the game. “(Zach) Werenski is one of the top defencemen in the league, transporting the puck, getting involved offensively.
The Leafs’ quest to maintain their Atlantic Division lead will be tested as they head into this weekend, with Columbus coming to town. Joseph Woll is expected to start in net, continuing a rotation between Woll and Stolarz.
Winger Nick Robertson will play with Benoit in the lineup, while Scott Laughton’s status remains uncertain. Laughton began the week with an upper-body injury.
Player Impact & Roster Adjustments
Jake McCabe’s absence will be felt immediately. He’s a shutdown defender and a dependable penalty killer– a significant loss for a team already juggling injuries. The sudden adjustment of Myers and Benoit necessitates an adjustment in the defensive scheme during the game. Rielly and Carlo’s response to this will be key.
“He does a lot of things for us, a shutdown defenceman with (Chris) Tanev, his physical play, penalty kill, leadership,” Berube said. “He brings a lot. It’s hard to sit here and say ‘Oh, we can replace him.’ ”
The team will need to rely on its remaining defensive depth, which Berube acknowledged will require a shift in emphasis and a greater emphasis on accountability.
Looking Ahead: Columbus Matchup
The Blue Jackets are battling to cling to a playoff berth, and arrive in Toronto with desperation. They’ve recently beaten the Leafs twice in head-to-head matchups this season. But the Leafs’ improved offensive play and strong defensive positioning pose a formidable threat headed into the weekend.
“We have to do a better job of defending and checking this team,” Berube concluded.
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