Joseph Woll “Getting Close”, While Maple Leafs Get Forward Back

Wednesday offered up some good news for fans of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Two key returns are close as a goaltender is almost back and a key depth forward returns to the lineup against the Utah Mammoth.

Toronto Maple Leafs’ goaltender Joseph Woll is inching closer to returning to game action, according to head coach Craig Berube. While Berube stopped short of providing a specific timeline, he indicated that Woll is “close.”

Berube noted, “It’s getting close. I don’t want to give you a timeline and then it’s changed, but I can just say this — he’s in a real good spot,” Berube told reporters.

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He added, “It’s great to have him out with us in practice and stuff. He’s doing well.”

Woll’s return is likely to start with a conditioning stint in the AHL before he rejoins the Maple Leafs at the NHL level. Both general manager Brad Treliving and head coach Craig Berube have refused to comment on what’s keeping Woll away from the team. The only explanation given was that it’s been for personal reasons. The Leafs, who have been struggling this season, are anxious to get him back.

Scott Laughton Set to Return

Meanwhile, Maple Leafs center Scott Laughton will be activated from injured reserve ahead of tonight’s game against the Utah Mammoth. Toronto must clear a roster spot, potentially by placing Steven Lorentz on IR retroactive to Oct. 29 or sending down a rookie.

Laughton, sidelined since preseason with a lower-body injury, hasn’t played this season. “I’m gonna have that nervous energy. And I think it’s a good thing,” he said ahead of Wednesday’s game.

In other news, the Maple Leafs are set to honour John Tavares and his family tonight before the game with a special video ceremony highlighting his 500th career goal, scored in Columbus seven days ago.

Easton Cowan will be a healthy scratch tonight for the fourth time this season.

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