It appears as though the Leafs could have multiple lineup changes tonight in Detroit; Keefe non-committal after game-day skate
The Leafs extended their win streak to 3 thanks to a late Mitch Marner goal against the Nashville Predators and a sensational outing from goaltender Matt Murray on Wednesday, but the Buds have no time to sit back and enjoy the win as they're right back at it on Thursday with the second half of a back-to-back with travel against the Red Wings in Detroit tonight.
Since Murray played last night, it is expected that Ilya Samsonov will get the nod in Detroit against the Wings. In addition, there were two players taking on some extra work at practice on Thursday, which usually indicates a healthy scratch. Those two players are Conor Timmins and Dryden Hunt.
This could indicate that the Leafs intend to have Matthews back in the lineup tonight, though he is still listed as a game-time decision. If Hunt does indeed come out, that means that we could see Bobby McMann earn another game after a solid NHL debut against Nashville last night. If Matthews remains out, we could see Wayne Simmonds draw back in for Hunt.
On defense, if Timmins does indeed come out, we should see Jordie Benn skating in his spot on the team's third pair. Benn has been largely effective for the Buds when called upon this season. Getting him into another game on the second half of a back-to-back may do him well and keep him sharp, as well as add a pair of fresh legs on the back end for the Leafs.
For now, Keefe says that any changes to his lineup against Detroit will be "game-time decisions".
