Maple Leafs demote defenseman to the Marlies after just 24 hours with the team

With William Nylander on the injured reserve and Jake McCabe looking to miss a week of action, the Leafs have had to make some roster moves.

For instance, we reported on Monday that Marshall Rifai was called up by the Toronto Maple Leafs in a move that fans were extremely excited about.

There was this sense that Rifai could actually get some playing time here, especially with McCabe out, and Philippe Myers regressing.

Earlier today, it was revealed that Brandon Carlo would be making his return to the Maple Leafs lineup. Furthermore, Rifai got some bad news, just 24 hours after being called up.

The Maple Leafs have activated Brandon Carlo from the injured reserve. Meanwhile, Marshall Rifai has been sent back down to the Toronto Marlies.

It is the harsh reality for the 27-year-old, who has been stuck in the AHL for much of his career, having only played two games for the Leafs franchise.

Marshall Rifai has been working hard to get an NHL opportunity, and it feels as though those efforts are not being properly rewarded right now.

It's not easy to be in this kind of position, and we're sure he would much rather be getting ice time in the NHL. At this point, it would not be surprising if Rifai left the franchise, just like Alex Steeves did.

There is going to be a team out there willing to give him more playing time. At this stage, the Leafs simply are not that team.

It's a tough reality, and it will be interesting to see if Rifai speaks up, or if the Leafs finally give him the opportunity he deserves.

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