San Jose Sharks rookie Macklin Celebrini returned to the ice on Monday morning for an optional skate after missing practice on Sunday with a lower-body injury.
San Jose will take on the Toronto Maple Leafs for the first time this season. Although the center is still considered a game-time decision, according to head coach Ryan Warsofsky, Celebrini is talking like he will play.
The Sharks are on an eight-game losing streak but have been tied or leading after two periods in the four games following the 4 Nations break. Losing Celebrini, especially against the Maple Leafs, would be a huge blow.
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Henry Thrun Won't Play Against Senators; Sharks' Uncertain If Recall Is Needed
The Sharks are also dealing with more injuries, as Henry Thrun looks like he will miss time. San Jose recalled Jimmy Schuldt from the American Hockey League Monday morning. He won't make his Sharks debut tonight. Thrun was placed on injured reserve and will be out for a minimum of seven days.
In other lineup changes, Alexandar Georgiev will be in goal and Carl Grundstrom will be in the lineup for Klim Kostin.
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