Maple Leafs prospect makes a statement with huge game after demotion

Expecting Nylander to return to the lineup on Saturday, the Leafs had to clear a roster spot. To free up a spot on the roster, the Leafs re-assigned 23-year-old Jacob Quillan to the Toronto Marlies.

Called up on Monday, the former Quinnipiac University forward was more of a practice body for the Leafs.

Unable to draw into the lineup on Tuesday or Thursday for the Leafs, Quillan made a rather loud statement on Friday night when he rejoined the Marlies lineup.

In the Marlies 6-1 win over the Belleville Bulls, the Nova Scotia native found the back of the net three times, added an assist and had four shots on goal.

Whether it ends up being this season or next, Quillan is certainly making a strong case for a full-time NHL role.

The pending restricted free agent currently leads the Marlies in scoring with 27 points in 27 games and has emerged as one of the Leafs' best centre prospects.

Not only can Quillan provide an offensive touch and more speed in the bottom the lineup for the Leafs, but he would give them more depth down the middle, which is never a bad thing.

The Leafs may not have a ton of prospects or draft picks, but it certainly seems like they've found a diamond in the rough with Quillan and it would be a shame to see them make the same mistake they made with Alex Steeves, allowing Quillan to toil away in the minors instead of giving him the opportunity he deserves.

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