With the end of the exhibition season, the Toronto Maple Leafs turn their focus to the season opener against the Montreal Canadiens at Air Canada Center on Wednesday.
An impressive 5-1 victory over Detroit on Friday night may have determined roster spots for youngsters like Brandon Kozun and Stuart Percy, but key injuries may also effect the make up of the 23 man roster selected by head coach Randy Carlyle and his staff in the next few days.
Injured defenseman Cody Franson skated at the club’s practice facility in Etobicoke, ON Saturday morning to test out his bruised knee, but it is uncertain whether the big defenseman will be ready for Montreal.
Percy had another steady and solid performance against the Wings and would likely be teamed with veteran Roman Polak for his first NHL game. After playing effectively as a pair on Friday, Carlyle will stay with the veteran pairing of Stephane Robidas and Dion Phaneuf on the top unit and hinted at reuniting speedy blueliners Jake Gardiner and Morgan Rielly for the opener. A growing concern is the status of star forward Phil Kessel, who did not play in either game against Detroit after suffering an unspecified lower body injury against Buffalo last Sunday and left practice early Saturday after experiencing continuing discomfort.
Kessel’s status could mean a reprieve for Josh Leivo or Matt Frattin, who are on the bubble and at risk of being sent down or placed on waivers.
2014 top pick William Nylander does not appear to be an option in the event of a Kessel injury. The 18-year-old tailed off at the end of training camp and appears bound for the Swedish Hockey League.
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