We’ve been kept in the dark for a very long time regarding the forward’s injury.
We’re already attempting to unravel some mysteries before the real Toronto Maple Leafs season has even begun. Thankfully, Leafs general manager John Chayka eventually provided us with some crucial information that revealed the truth.
For the past week of training camp, Dakota Joshua has been noticeably absent from several crucial Leafs practices. The 30-year-old forward was regularly spending time away from his NHL teammates with the Marlies group, and even though Toronto needed a total of 36 skaters for their series of split-squad games against the Montreal Canadiens last Saturday, he did not participate in either group.
People speculated about what was actually happening due to a slight cloud that hung over it. Are the Leafs simply attempting to conceal the fact that he is in terrible condition going into training camp? Is anything else occurring? Is it related to an injury?
Thankfully, Chayka clarified it on Wednesday morning.
Dakota Joshua is simply dealing with a persistent injury.
As it turns out, Joshua has been dealing with a chronic ailment for some time, which is why he hasn’t really taken part in anything significant during Leafs training camp.
Dakota Joshua has a core injury. According to Chayka, it’s been going on for a while. Day in and day out.
Well, that clarifies that. Although the Leafs may try to characterize this injury as day-to-day, it’s difficult to really believe that we may see Joshua participate in line rushes and be a part of the team at any point as the season begins.
He is not certain to remain on the squad.
The Leaf’s team is unclear of Joshua’s position.
Since Chayka signed an entirely new group of bottom-six forwards for head coach Jim Hiller to work with over the summer, Joshua may be forced to leave if he doesn’t play well enough. The large winger scored 10 goals and 18 points in 55 games last season, despite averaging just 12:15 of ice time. However, with the additions of Teddy Blueger, Colton Sissons, and Brandon Duhaime, he will need to do much more to reclaim his fourth-line position.
He might just be in the running for a spot when he’s healthy, and we don’t even know when that will be. We can’t imagine a scenario where he is sent down to the Marlies on waivers since he is still under contract for an additional two seasons at a hefty $3.75 million AAV for a depth forward. To regain some regular playing time, he will simply need to ensure he is performing better than someone like Duhaime or Steven Lorentz.
The Leafs will play their final two preseason games in split-squad action against the Ottawa Senators on Wednesday night as the roster begins to form.
The Leafs will play their final two preseason games on Wednesday night in split-squad action against the Ottawa Senators as the team begins to come together.
