Maple Leafs Make Roster Move Ahead of Game vs Tampa Bay

The Toronto Maple Leafs are likely going to be without defenseman Travis Dermott for Thursday's game against the Tampa Bay Lightning as he blocked a shot earlier this week. Dermott's considered day to day with a foot injury and the team has recalled a replacement.

Maple Leafs recall defenceman Kristiāns Rubīns from the Marlies.

— luke fox (@lukefoxjukebox) November 4, 2021

It's unlikely Leafs Nation will see Rubins play on Thursday night, and perhaps he's just a security blanket in case anything else crazy happens before puck drop. Defenseman Justin Holl has been a healthy scratch the past few games and likely draws back into the lineup. 

Last time we saw Holl was in Chicago where Auston Matthews was visibly pissed with his play on the ice and was even shouting at him on the bench.

As for Rubins, he deserves the call up after another strong start with the Marlies. The 6'4 Latvia native has appeared in six games so far and has collected three points. He's been a part of the Maple Leafs organization since 2018-19 and the team loves his size and ability to stop the rush. 

Holl better get his game on track tonight against the Lightning or else he could be moved in the very near future.

Photo credit:  John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports