Domi will get reps on the second power play unit but it's not clear where the player will slot into the lineup.
Domi will get reps on the second power play unit but it's not clear where the player will slot into the lineup.
NEWARK, N.J. — Max Domi will be a "game-time" decision, but all indications suggest the Toronto Maple Leafs forward is set to return to the lineup after an eight-game absence when the team faces the New Jersey Devils on Tuesday.
Speaking for the first time in nearly a month following Monday's practice, Domi shared that he’s feeling better. He took part in drills on Toronto's second power play unit, skating alongside Fraser Minten, Max Pacioretty, Morgan Rielly, and Oliver Ekman-Larsson.
"Where we play him tonight, center or wing, we'll look at our situation and see where he fits best tonight," Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube said regarding Domi's role.
Domi, who has been sidelined since Nov. 16 with a lower-body injury, has yet to score this season but has contributed six assists in 19 games. Berube noted that Domi had been playing through the injury before ultimately being shut down.
"It was just a decision that we decided the rest would benefit, not just myself, but the group as well," Domi explained on Monday,
While Domi hasn’t disclosed the specifics of his injury, he confirmed he’s "feeling good"
With Domi’s expected return, Alex Nylander will be a scratch. After making a brief return to the lineup in Saturday’s 5-2 loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins, Nylander joined Nick Robertson and Marshall Rifai for the morning skate reserved for players unlikely to play.
Nylander logged 9:18 of ice time in Saturday's game, while Robertson will be a healthy scratch for the second straight game.
Roster adjustments for Domi’s activation
Once Domi is officially activated, another player will need to be removed from the 23-man active roster. Nikita Grebenkin, who participated in the optional morning skate but did not stay out late with the other scratched players, is expected to be sent back to the Marlies to clear space for Domi.
A fan and team favourite, Grebenkin has no points in seven games with the Leafs this season.