Justin Holl leaves Maple Leafs practice bloody (Updated)
3 years ago
Update: Sheldon Keefe revealed shortly after practice concluded that Justin Holl received stitches for his injury and should be OK. There is no expected date for his return yet.
Justin Holl left the ice midway during the Maple Leafs team practice on Wednesday after sustaining an injury, Kristen Shilton reported.
According to TSN’s Mark Masters, Holl’s injury was sustained in his mouth. This is an unfortunate blow for the Leafs as opening night of the playoffs inches closer. The Leafs have been hoping for a healthy blue line heading into play after a long season and pause. Holl has had an impressive season this season, solidifying his spot on the Leafs blue line under Sheldon Keefe’s helm. Playing 68 games with the Leafs this season, his addition has been nothing short of beneficial for an otherwise rather thin defensive core. Heading into Wednesday’s practice, Holl was slotted alongside Jake Muzzin on the Leafs second pair.
Injuries sustained during training camp isn’t something new for the Leafs, as Zach Hyman also went down after blocking a shot last Friday. Fortunately, Hyman was back practicing with the team again on Tuesday, after missing weekend sessions. Additionally, Andreas Johnsson and Timothy Liljegren were also back on the ice on Wednesday while recovering from their own injuries. The Leafs will surely be hoping that Holl can return well before their play-in series against the Columbus Blue Jackets begins on Aug. 2.
The Leafs continued to scrimmage on Wednesday with Travis Dermott moving up in his place. It is likely that Rasmus Sandin will move up to the third pair as a result until Holl’s return.
Recent articles from Matthew Rodrigopulle
