Mitch Marner not at practice after suffering injury in Wednesday’s loss to Columbus

After suffering an injury during Wednesday’s loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets, rookie sensation Mitch Marner was not at Maple Leafs practice today. The injury occurred with about five minutes to go in the second period, as Marner tried to check Boone Jenner but slipped and tumbled into the boards. After the spill, Marner went to the dressing room, returned to the bench, and ultimately called it a night. 

The 2015 fourth overall pick is leading the team in points, and has been making a serious case for Calder Trophy consideration. 

This is obviously very unfortunate timing for Marner and the Leafs, as the team is heading into a crucial stretch of their schedule that’ll have major implications as to whether they make the playoffs or not. With the Florida Panthers and New York Islanders heating up, the playoff race in the Eastern Conference is going to be intense down the stretch. 

We don’t know yet whether or not the injury is serious, but at practice, Marner’s spot on the second line was filled by Connor Brown and his spot on the first power play was filled by Josh Leivo. Marner went for an MRI on Thursday and the results will likely be made public at some point in time today, meaning we’ll know whether or not the Leafs need to make a roster move for this weekend’s games against Ottawa and Carolina. 

Mitch Marner’s injury doesn’t seem to be serious. He won’t be placed on the injured reserve, and as a result, the Leafs won’t make any roster transactions before the weekend.