Toronto Maple Leafs Make Massive Roster Changes Before Tonight's Game

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Hunter Bowman
December 23, 2023 (11:56)

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After a rough outing against the Sabres, the Toronto Maple Leafs are aiming to bounce back tonight against the Columbus Blue Jackets, and coach Sheldon Keefe isn't holding back when it comes to shaking up the lineup.

In the aftermath of Thursday night's disappointing defeat to the Sabres, Keefe is making significant changes for the upcoming game. Whether it's to ignite some passion or experiment with new combinations, Keefe is rolling out a revamped lineup.

Here's a glimpse of how the Leafs' lines shaped up during their recent practice.

Leafs lines at practice Dec. 22/23

Knies-Matthews-Marner
Bertuzzi-Tavares-Nylander
Robertson-Domi-Holmberg
McMann-Kampf-Gregor
Absent: Jarnkrok

Rielly-Brodie
McCabe-Liljegren
Benoit-Lagesson
Giordano-Timmins

A notable move is the reunion of Matthews and Marner on the first line. While they both saw moderate success apart, bringing Nylander back with Tavares and Bertuzzi aims to reignite the second line.

Holmberg Gets a Shot on the Third Line as Jarnkrok Sits Out

Calle Jarnkrok's absence from practice due to the flu bug has opened the door for Leafs prospect Pontus Holmberg to step in on the third line.

In another development, Mark Giordano continues to hit the practice ice, raising hopes among Leafs fans for his imminent return to play.

Source: Hockeypatrol