The Toronto Maple Leafs have sent center Benoit-Olivier Groulx back to the AHL's Toronto Marlies, as announced on Friday. Groulx, at 26, had been called up earlier this month to fill a crucial role after Scott Laughton was traded to the Kings and Auston Matthews was sidelined with a season-ending MCL injury.
In his return to NHL action after nearly two years, Groulx made a notable impact. Standing at 6'2", he tallied three goals and two assists over nine games.
His performance was not just about the numbers, though; he maintained a +5 rating and averaged over 15 minutes per game, often in demanding defensive situations. This kind of efficiency has certainly put him in the conversation for a bottom-six center spot when training camp rolls around next fall.
Originally a second-round pick by the Ducks in 2018, Groulx's early NHL career didn't quite take off, with just one goal and five points in 65 games before the Ducks let him go in 2024. However, since joining the Rangers and then the Maple Leafs, he's shown significant growth in his offensive game. This season, he's been leading the Marlies with 50 points in 54 games, proving his capability as a key player.
Head coach Craig Berube shed some light on the decision to send Groulx back to the Marlies, highlighting Groulx's willingness to contribute and play at the AHL level. Despite his impressive stint in the NHL, the move seems strategic, keeping the Marlies strong as they push through their season.
With Matthews out, the Leafs are left without an extra healthy forward on the roster. Any further injuries would necessitate an emergency recall from the Marlies to ensure they can field a full lineup. Groulx's journey this season underscores the depth and resilience of the Leafs' system, and his continued development will be one to watch.