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Toronto Maple Leafs make last-minute lineup change at the expense of a promising rookie
Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images
The Toronto Maple Leafs need a win against the Montreal Canadiens tonight, and as a result, Craig Berube is making some difficult lineup decisions.
With the Maple Leafs losing six of their last seven games, there is no denying that this team is in a bit of a bad position right now and very desperately needs a win.
The Montreal Canadiens are in a similar position, which is going to make tonight's Hockey Night in Canada matchup that much more entertaining.
As Leafs fans are well aware, the team is dealing with a plethora of injuries right now. Auston Matthews, Matthew Knies, Brandon Carlo, Anthony Stolarz, Chris Tanev, and Nicolas Roy will all be sitting out.
On the fourth line, the Leafs are looking for some grit, and this has led Craig Berube to a difficult decision involving a promising rookie.
Sammy Blais draws in over Jacob Quillan
After centering the fourth line at practice on Friday, 23-year-old forward Jacob Quillan is going to be a healthy scratch for tonight's game.
In his place, Berube will be putting forward Sammy Blais back into the lineup, which makes perfect sense, as he is a guy who delivers a bit more grit and toughness than Quillan.
While Quillan has zero points through two games, he has still showcased lots of promise, and is someone who has a bright future with the organization.
Sammy Blais' stats at a glance
As for Blais, he has played seven games with the Toronto Maple Leafs this season and has managed one goal and two assists for three points.
Fans have enjoyed his game, although two of his points came in his first game of the season. For the most part, he has largely been unproductive on offense.
The Canadiens are his former team, so perhaps Berube sees this as an opportunity for the forward to get motivated. Hopefully for the Leafs, it is a decision that pays off.
| POLL | ||
NOVEMBRE 22 | 448 ANSWERS Toronto Maple Leafs make last-minute lineup change at the expense of a promising rookie Do you believe Jacob Quillan should be in the Maple Leafs' lineup over Sammy Blais? | ||
| YES | 315 | 70.3 % |
| NO | 133 | 29.7 % |
| List of polls | ||
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