Maple Leafs Welcome Blue Jackets Amid Lineup Changes

TORONTO, Canada — The Toronto Maple Leafs are set to face the Columbus Blue Jackets on November 20, 2025, in hopes of building on their recent success after a 3-2 win over the St. Louis Blues.

Key changes in the Maple Leafs’ lineup include the return of forward Scott Laughton, who missed six games due to an upper-body injury. Laughton’s return is timely, as the Leafs continue to navigate injuries to stars like Auston Matthews and Chris Tanev.

Matthews, who has been sidelined since early November, was a full participant in the morning skate but will miss tonight’s game. Coach Craig Berube expressed cautious optimism about Matthews’ recovery, but no timeline has been set for his return.

The Leafs will also see lines shuffled. William Nylander will shift to the left wing on the top line alongside John Tavares and Calle Jarnkrok. This pairing aims to create a better matchup against Columbus’ defense.

Meanwhile, Toronto’s second line will feature Nick Robertson, who is moving down to play with Bobby McMann and Max Domi. This adjustment is expected to generate more offense as the team copes with missing players.

On the Blue Jackets’ side, they too are dealing with injuries, including Erik Gudbranson and Boone Jenner. Their projected lineup remains strong with names like Zach Werenski and Sean Monahan leading the charge.

Chinakhov returns tonight after being a healthy scratch, replacing Zach Aston-Reese. The Blue Jackets look to capitalize on their momentum from a recent win against the Montreal Canadiens.

Both teams aim for a crucial win, each navigating a challenging season marked by injuries and lineup changes. The matchup is highly anticipated among fans eager to see how the modified strategies will unfold on the ice.