The Toronto Maple Leafs are set to face the Ottawa Senators without their seasoned defenseman, Morgan Rielly. Rielly, dealing with a lower-body injury, is listed as day-to-day after aggravating it in Friday's matchup against the Carolina Hurricanes. Head coach Craig Berube confirmed the news, adding another layer of complexity to an already challenging season for the Leafs.
Rielly, who also missed Thursday's Fan Day due to the flu, has been a pivotal figure for Toronto. Despite recording nine goals and 33 points across 67 games, he's faced tough times defensively, with a league-worst 69 goals against at 5-on-5 play. His -10 goal differential highlights the struggles of the team's longest-tenured player, who has shouldered much of the responsibility during this transitional phase.
Stepping into Rielly's skates is Philippe Myers, who returns to the lineup after his last appearance against the New York Islanders on March 17. Myers, with two assists in 34 games, will be looking to make an impact as the Leafs aim to navigate through these turbulent times.
Adding to the lineup considerations, Michael Pezzetta's status remains uncertain. Called up from the AHL’s Toronto Marlies, Pezzetta didn't see ice time against the Hurricanes. The 28-year-old made a memorable debut against the Anaheim Ducks earlier this month, engaging in a fight just one second into the game.
In goal, Anthony Stolarz will get the nod to start. This decision follows some pointed criticism from Berube towards Joseph Woll after Friday's loss, urging for more timely saves from his goaltender.
With the playoffs looking out of reach for the first time in a decade, the Leafs are in a position where resting veterans could be beneficial. Fans are hopeful for a strategic turnaround, particularly with the potential to reclaim their 2026 first-round pick from the Boston Bruins, which is top-five protected. As the season winds down, all eyes will be on how the Leafs manage these final games and prepare for the future.