As per a report from Sportsnet’s Chris Johnston, it sounds like Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Rasmus Sandin is out for several weeks with a foot injury. The defenseman got hurt blocking a shot during the Toronto Marlies season opener in Winnipeg on Monday night. Other reports have the defenseman listed as day-to-day, so it’s a news item worth keeping an eye on.
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While this isn’t likely to directly affect the Maple Leafs roster, it could should other injuries or issues present themselves on the team’s blue line. Sandin has gotten into only one game this season for the Maple Leafs and has one assist. This injury took place in his first game for the Marlies after being sent down to the AHL.
The entire reason Sandin was moved down to the AHL was so that he could get game reps in. Being on the taxi squad and just watching was not doing the defenseman any favors in terms of his development and progression. Obviously, this is not good news in that regard.
Marlies coach Greg Moore said the other day that the team had big plans for Sandin: “He’s going to be relied upon heavily here. I don’t want him to get comfortable (in the AHL).” He added that he’d specifically be watching “how hard he pushes the envelope, and how he demands to be a game changer.”
Is This It For Sandin’s Season With the Maple Leafs?
The expectation was that Sandin’s stay in the AHL wasn’t likely to be a long one. Unfortunately, that’s probably no longer the case. Once he rehabs the injury, he’ll need time to get back up to speed.
Remember, in a shortened season, several weeks is long time and a lot of games missed. It’s unfortunate, but this news could mean the end of his chances to play with the Maple Leafs roster this season.
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