Toronto Maple Leafs Training Camp Overview

As the Toronto Maple Leafs gear up for the 2024-25 season, management is taking strategic advantage of a four-day break between exhibition games to reassess their roster. Fans are buzzing with anticipation, especially with the recent developments emerging from training camp.

Ben Danford Loaned Back to Oshawa Generals

In a Monday update, the Toronto Maple Leafs announced via their Press Release Twitter account that they have loaned 2024 first-round pick Ben Danford back to the Oshawa Generals. This decision follows a disappointing pre-season for the Belleville, Ontario native, who was sidelined due to a concussion sustained during rookie camp on September 12. Though expectations were low for his role in the current training camp, the experience would have been invaluable for the young talent.

As Danford returns to the Generals for his third season—having served as an alternate captain last year—there's speculation about whether he might be appointed the new team captain. With last year's captain, Stuart Rolofs, advancing to the East Coast Hockey League, this could be a golden opportunity for Danford to step into a leadership role.

Injury Updates

In other news from the training camp, NHL Insider Mark Masters has reported that several injured players were spotted on the ice in non-contact jerseys ahead of Monday's practice. Among them is team captain John Tavares, who has played in two pre-season games but sustained an injury during a game against the Montreal Canadiens. He was involved in a collision with depth forward Michael Pezzetta, which resulted in an injury to his lower right leg. Despite showing determination to compete, Tavares appeared to favor the leg throughout the match, raising concerns as he had been off to a stellar start with a goal and four points.

Veteran forward Calle Järnkrok is also facing an uphill battle for a roster spot. Despite having two years left on his contract with a cap hit of $2.1 million, he has only played in one pre-season game due to a lingering lower body injury that has kept him out of practices. Järnkrok missed 30 games last year, and rumors are circulating about the possibility of the Leafs moving in a different direction, especially with his current struggles.

Additionally, trade deadline acquisition Connor Dewar is still recovering from shoulder surgery performed last May and has yet to don a game jersey during the pre-season. Initial reports indicated that he would be ready for camp, but he remains in a non-contact jersey. Dewar is anticipated to play a pivotal role on the fourth line once he is cleared to return to full participation.

Looking Ahead

As the pre-season unfolds, fans are left wondering how these injuries and roster decisions will impact the Maple Leafs' pursuit of a championship. Will Ben Danford emerge as a star? Can Tavares bounce back in time for the regular season? Stay tuned for more updates as the Maple Leafs prepare for an exhilarating season ahead!