Maple Leafs place forward on waivers and send rookie back to the Marlies

Just moments ago, the Toronto Maple Leafs announced that Sammy Blais had been put on waivers.

Meanwhile, forward Jacob Quillan is being sent back down to the AHL and the Toronto Marlies.

This is being done because Auston Matthews, Nicolas Roy, and Matthew Knies are returning to the Leafs lineup against the Columbus Blue Jackets.

In eight games with the Toronto Maple Leafs this season, Sammy Blais managed a total of three points, one of which was a goal.

Blais' first game with the Leafs was his strongest as he was able to get a goal and an assist. In his other starts, he wasn't nearly as productive, although he was always seen as more of a shutdown guy.

With this move, any team is welcome to come and claim Blais off waivers. Although if he clears, he will be sent down to the Toronto Marlies.

As for Jacob Quillan, he had zero points through two games with the Leafs. He was solid during those outings, but just wasn't able to get any production.

Ultimately, Quillan has a bright future ahead of him, but with the Maple Leafs getting healthy, it just didn't make sense for him to be on the roster.

Tonight, the Leafs take on the Blue Jackets in a game that could determine the rest of the team's path for the season. They are last in the Eastern Conference and desperately need a win.

With Matthews and Knies back in the lineup, the Leafs have an amazing chance to have a comeback for the ages.