Fraser Minten is an obvious third-line option for the Maple Leafs but they want him to practice first.
The Toronto Maple Leafs called up Fraser Minten from the Toronto Marlies on Thursday morning. Following an injury to John Tavares at practice on Wednesday, it made sense for the club to call up their prospect center who has played in the third-line center spot previously.
But the Leafs won't do that right away, electing to go with the players they already had on the roster when the club hosts the New Jersey Devils at Scotiabank Arena on Thursday.
"I felt (he) hasn't practiced with us. And, it's not so much of an emergency," Berube said of the decision. "We have players here that have been with us in practice and played. So I thought about it for a while. But I went with what I went with."
With Tavares out for at least three games and likely more following a "week-to-week" prognosis, Max Domi will be called on to play on the second line, likely with Max Pacioretty and William Nylander.
"I've used him up there before with Nylander. So for me, he's a guy that can go up there and provide some offense and, well, playmaking ability. So we're going to need that from him."
Domi has struggled to find offense this season, scoring just three times while adding 12 assists in 37 games this season.
"It happens," Domi said about his offensive struggles. "You just have to stick with it.":
Berube provided more insight on what they want to see more out of their forward.
"He needs to get on the inside more," he said. "And I think he needs to shoot pucks more, which I thought he has the last couple games. And skate. He's a good skater. He's got to use the speed. And it's just a little bit more direct shooting. Just more pucks going to the net in general."
Connor Dewar, who was projected to be a scratch at practice before Tavares' injury took place, will draw into the lineup
Joseph Woll is the projected starting goaltender for the Leafs against the Devils.
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