The Toronto Maple Leafs have announced that they will be without Ilya Mikheyev for a minimum of three months after sustaining a laceration to his wrist in Friday Night’s game against the New Jersey Devils. Mikheyev underwent successful surgery to repair an artery and tendons in his wrist. He is expected to make a full recovery, and a more accurate timeline of his return will be provided in 90 days.
Maple Leafs Ilya Mikheyev Out After Suffering Lacerated Wrist
Ilya Mikheyev of the Toronto Maple Leafs has had a successful surgery to repair an artery and tendons in his wrist. He is expected to make a full recovery but a more accurate timeline for his return will be provided in 90 days.
— Dan Milstein-Hockey (@HockeyAgent1) December 28, 2019
It was a scary scene as Mikheyev rushed off the ice with a trail of blood following behind him. Mikheyev was cut accidentally by the skate of Jesper Bratt in the third period of Friday Night’s game.
In 39 games this season, Mikheyev has scored eight goals and added 15 assists for 23 points.
Mikheyev signed a one-year entry-level deal with the Leafs on May 6th, 2019.
More Injury Woes for the Leafs
The Maple Leafs managed to pull off the 5-4 overtime win against the Devils on Friday, despite the injury to Mikheyev. However, the health of their fallen teammate is clearly more important to the team. Mikheyev has been playing outstanding for the Leafs in his first season with the club. Losing him is a huge blow to the club’s offence.
The Leafs have been battling injuries all season long after missing both John Tavares and Mitch Marner for extended periods of time. The club also recently announced the Trevor Moore will be out indefinitely with a concussion. This will be yet another big test for the Leafs depth.
With Mikheyev out, recent recall Adam Brooks will get a shot in the Leafs lineup. In 20 games with the Leafs AHL affiliate Toronto Marlies this season, Brooks has scored eight goals and added eight assists. The 23-year-old has yet to see action in an NHL game so far in his career.
Who will play on the left side next to John Tavares and William Nylander remains to be seen. However, the best bet would be Kasperi Kapanen, as he has seen time in the top six this season.
The Maple Leafs will play host to the New York Rangers on Saturday night.
Main Photo:
Embed from Getty Images
