The Leafs have returned Spencer Sova to the Erie Otters

The Leafs continue to trim down their roster as the preseason winds down, with the latest cut being a standout undrafted defenceman.

Spencer Sova had an impressive showing at training camp and got a pretty long look from the management, but Toronto ultimately decided to send him back to the OHL for the 2023-24 campaign. No word yet on whether he will get an ELC with the Leafs, though they have exclusive priority to sign him if they want or else he can reapply for the draft.

The recently named captain of the Erie Otters is coming off an impressive sophomore season where he emerged as one of the lone bright spots on a team that finished near the league basement. Sova recorded 39 points (16 goals and 23 assists) in 68 games played, leading all Otters defenceman and third on the team overall. His services will definitely be needed as the Otters are currently on a two-game losing streak to begin the season with him likely making his season debut on October 6th against the Guelph Storm.

Sova appeared in one preseason game where he went scoreless, blocked two shots, and had an ice time of 14:22 during last Friday’s win over the Canadiens.

As a result of this roster cut, the Leafs are now down to 19 forwards, 11 defensemen, and three goalies. There are still plenty more decisions to be made but the lineup for the 2023-24 season is beginning to take shape.

Toronto has two more preseason games remaining, both of them being against the Red Wings, with the next one taking place on October 5th at 7 p.m. EST.