Leafs fans rejoiced on Monday after the announcement that injured defenseman Jake Muzzin was probable to return on Tuesday against the Florida Panthers. Now, his return appears to be official, as the veteran blueliner has been activated from Long-Term Injured Reserve (LTIR).
Muzzin had been sidelined since February 21st after suffering his second concussion in a 6-week span following a collision with Montreal Canadiens defenseman Chris Wideman, missing the Leafs' last 20 games. Unofficial reports suggested that Muzzin had been ready to return at least a week ago, but the Leafs were not taking any chances with Muzzin's health after his second traumatic brain injury in such a short period of time.
Per The Leafs Nation's David Alter, the Leafs have made another roster move in order to create some space for Muzzin's return, sending defenseman Carl Dahlstrom back down to the AHL's Toronto Marlies. Dahlstrom played just one game during his short stint up with the big club, registering his first point as a Leaf, an assist on a second period goal by John Tavares against the Winnipeg Jets on March 31st.
With Muzzin returning to action on Tuesday, the Leafs have a very tough decision to make. Sheldon Keefe and the coaching staff will have to choose whether to scratch Justin Holl or Timothy Liljegren. Both right-shot defensemen have been very good in recent weeks, with Liljegren blossoming alongside former Norris Trophy winner Mark Giordano, while Justin Holl has looked like a new man playing beside T.J. Brodie.
