Toronto Maple Leafs Announce Opening Day Roster Amid Injuries

The Toronto Maple Leafs have unveiled their roster for the start of the 2024-25 NHL season, which will feature 13 forwards, eight defensemen, and two goaltenders. The announcement comes amid several injury concerns that have impacted the team’s initial lineup.

Forwards Connor Dewar and Fraser Minten have been placed on injured reserve with upper and lower body injuries, respectively. Additionally, forward Calle Järnkrok and defensemen Jani Hakanpää and Dakota Mermis have been assigned to long-term injured reserve due to lower and upper body injuries.

In terms of player movement, goaltender Matt Murray and defenseman Marshall Rifai have been loaned to the Toronto Marlies, the Maple Leafs’ American Hockey League affiliate. This has been a crucial move in managing the team’s salary cap and roster size.

The Maple Leafs will kick off their season with two road games. They are set to face off against the Montréal Canadiens at Bell Centre on October 9 and the New Jersey Devils at Prudential Center on October 10. The team’s first home game is scheduled for October 12 against the Pittsburgh Penguins at Scotiabank Arena.

As the team readies itself for the new season, management has navigated complex roster decisions due to the recurring injury issues. The club must consider various factors, such as how to best utilize players like Max Pacioretty and Timothy Liljegren, as well as the potential contributions from younger players like Nick Robertson, who could play key roles if given the opportunity.

“Sorting through the roster decisions is messy,” noted a source familiar with the team’s plans. The Leaf’s management is expected to use the long-term injured reserve list strategically to buy time and make necessary adjustments as the season progresses.

Anthony Stolarz has been confirmed as the goaltender for the opening game against the Canadiens, as confirmed by the team. The Leafs are looking to establish early success as they navigate injuries and aim for an impactful start to their campaign.