"The Toronto Maple Leafs have a huge matchup tonight as they host the defending Stanley Cup champion Washington Capitals. With Boston Bruins pulling ahead of them in the Atlantic Division standings, the Leafs need a big win to keep pace with the Bruins and stay ahead of the Montreal Canadiens. They'll have to do so without center Nazem Kadri as head coach Mike Babcock confirmed to reporters that Kadri won't play Thursday night. Kadri was knocked out of Tuesday's game with a concussion and continues to feel the effects. William Nylander who replaced Kadri in Tuesday's game will take over his role as third line center. Here's a look at tonight's projected lineup:FORWARDSHyman-Tavares-Marner
Marleau-Matthews-Kapanen
Johnsson-Nylander-Brown
Lindholm-Gauthier-EnnisDEFENSIVE PAIRINGS
Rielly-Hainsey
Gardiner-Zaitsev
Muzzin-Dermott GOALIE
Andersen
"
