The Toronto Maple Leafs have sent center Frederik Gauthier back to the Toronto Marlies of the American Hockey League, as Tyler Bozak appears to be ready to return to the lineup after missing six weeks with a concussion.
The 20-year-old Gauthier (selected 21st overall in 2013) was called up on an emergency basis last weekend when forward Peter Holland was injured and was held without a point in victories over Buffalo and Calgary.
The Laval, QC native still has some work to do with his skating before being an effective player in the NHL. Gauthier’s size and defensive instincts make him a future possibility as a shutdown center, but his foot speed will has to improve.
Bozak has participated fully in practices for nearly a week and could be ready to play on Thursday, when the Leafs take on the Anaheim Ducks.
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Listen to interview with former Leafs Assistant GM Bill Watters, as we discuss the club’s rookie prospects and decisions facing them over the summer.
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