TORONTO — The Toronto Maple Leafs are entering the playoffs with momentum and in good health.
Defenseman Jake McCabe, known for his shutdown abilities, will be in the lineup for the home game against the Ottawa Senators on Sunday. This comes after an 18-day recovery period from an undisclosed upper-body injury sustained on April 2nd.
“Yeah, I’m pumped. I’m ready to rock,” McCabe confirmed on Saturday, expressing his eagerness to return.
Adding to the positive news, Oliver Ekman-Larsson`s condition is also showing improvement. He participated in a full team practice alongside his defensive partner, Simon Benoit, indicating a potential return.
The Maple Leafs are proceeding cautiously with Ekman-Larsson, who is also recovering from an upper-body injury. They plan to assess his response after a rigorous practice before clearing him to play.
The potential return of McCabe and Ekman-Larsson, two key defensemen who play significant minutes, would be a major boost for Toronto.
Coach Craig Berube highlighted their importance, stating, “They’ve been obviously very good D for us this year. Both good defenders. Penalty kill, power play — they touch all the situations that are needed. And good, experienced defence.”
If Ekman-Larsson is not quite ready for Game 1, the team has options in Philippe Myers, a right-shot defenseman, and Dakota Mermis, a left-shot defenseman, both of whom are prepared to step in.