We’re getting closer to Jordie Benn’s return as the Leafs have announced that Mac Hollowell will be returning to Marlies…

The Leafs didn’t make any changes to their lineup that beat the Ducks 7-0 and that seems fair, but having Benn as an option and not unnecessarily burning through Hollowell’s days on an NHL roster that would make him require waivers sooner makes sense. Especially with the looming Holiday Roster Freeze coming up on December 19th that Hollowell surely would have been sent down for.

Hollowell’s time with the Leafs certainly went better than expected, and he proved that he can be a sheltered offensive option on the bottom pairing and he was adjusting to what was required defensively of him as well. Considering that he was playing when the blueline was at its most crippled, he did well and has earned himself another look in the NHL at some point.