Dakota Joshua receives scary diagnosis after being hospitalized for a kidney issue

Dakota Joshua struggled to start the season, but he has really been coming into his own over the last few weeks and has contributed some timely offense.

With six goals, four assists, and 10 points in 36 games, he hasn't had the best season of his career, but he is at least putting the work in.

Unfortunately, last weekend, the forward suffered a kidney injury against the Detroit Red Wings and was hospitalized as a result.

Over the last week or so, Leafs fans have been waiting with bated breath for an update, and on Monday, they got just that. As you will read, it's bad news for everyone involved.

The forward suffered a lacerated kidney. These injuries are extremely serious as they can lead to infection if not treated properly. As a result of this injury, Joshua is going to be out long-term.

While there is no exact timeline on when Joshua is going to make his grand return to the lineup, it is clear that the Maple Leafs are going to be without him for a few weeks.

The injuries just continue to pile up for the Toronto Maple Leafs, especially with Jake McCabe out of the lineup right now as well.

While players like Brandon Carlo are on track for a return sooner rather than later, this is still very bad news for the Leafs, who need to be healthy in order to make a run in the Atlantic Division standings.

In case you haven't noticed, the Leafs are not in a playoff spot right now. If they want to get into a playoff spot, they need to keep winning games, which is a lot more difficult when you are ravaged by injury.

It's the sad reality of the Maple Leafs' situation right now, and only time will tell whether or not the Leafs will be able to lock in and pull out some wins.

Also read on Blade of steel :
Toronto Maple Leafs make difficult roster decision involving William Nylander