Sad News: Leaf’s two power players breakdown in…..read more

The Toronto Maple Leafs are facing a growing list of injuries as the regular season draws near, leaving fans and coaches concerned about the team’s depth and readiness.

Defenseman Jani Hakanpaa is out with a knee injury, joining forward Ryan Reaves, who suffered an apparent leg injury in a preseason game. The severity of Reaves’ injury is still unknown, but he is expected to miss significant time.

Jake McCabe, another defenseman, is nursing a groin injury but is not expected to miss much time. Goalie Matt Murray, who has been plagued by injuries in the past, is probable for the start of the season despite a hip injury.

Forwards Bobby McMann and Connor Dewar are also dealing with injuries, McMann with a knee issue and Dewar with a shoulder problem. Both are expected to be ready for the season opener.

Goaltender Joseph Woll is also probable for the start of the season despite a back injury.

The injuries have forced coach Craig Berube to get creative with his lineup, using preseason games to test different combinations and find chemistry among his players.

“We’re dealing with some adversity, but that’s hockey,” Berube said. “We need to find ways to overcome it and come out stronger on the other side.”

The Maple Leafs’ training staff is working around the clock to get the injured players back on the ice as quickly as possible.

“We’re doing everything we can to get our guys healthy,” said GM Brad Treliving. “We know it’s a long season, and we need everyone contributing.”

Despite the injuries, the Maple Leafs remain optimistic about their chances this season. With a strong core led by captain Auston Matthews, the team is confident it can make a deep playoff run.

“We’ve been through tough times before,” Matthews said. “We know how to come out stronger on the other side.”

The Maple Leafs open their regular season on October 12th against the Montreal Canadiens.