32 Josh Leivo LW

Maple Leafs' Josh Leivo: Little-used forward protected by team

Leivo spent most of last season on the team's black aces and rarely got into a game. But when he did, he produced -- Leivo tallied 10 points (two goals, eight assists) in 13 games. It remains to be seen if this guarantees him a job with the Leafs next season or if it just means general manager Lou Lamoriello wants him as part of an upcoming trade (rather than losing him for nothing to Vegas).

Maple Leafs' Josh Leivo: Likely healthy scratch Thursday

While it's good to see that Leivo is presumably no longer dealing with an injury, his days as a healthy scratch have apparently returned -- the 23-year-old sat 10 games in a row before being injured in the first action he saw on March 23. Between that and his paltry 10 points on the season, he's not a recommend fantasy play at this juncture.

Maple Leafs' Josh Leivo: Out Monday

Leivo didn't take line rushes during Monday's morning skate, indicating that he'll miss his second consecutive game. Despite only playing 13 games, Leivo has been a pleasant surprise for the Leafs this season, logging two goals and 10 points. Toronto's lineup will likely continue as is until Leivo is ready to return.

Maple Leafs' Josh Leivo: Leaves Tuesday's practice early

While it's disappointing that Leivo is scheduled to miss his second consecutive game, it's encouraging to see him take the ice for practice at all, which potentially indicates that what he's dealing with isn't overly serious. Leivo scored in his first game in almost a month before going down with the injury, so hopefully this ailment won't kill his momentum.

Maple Leafs' Josh Leivo: Won't play Saturday

Reading between the lines of Hendrick's report, it sounds like Ben Smith will be tagging into the lineup in place of Leivo, who has managed 10 points (two goals, eight assists) in just 13 games this season. The playoffs are a real possibility for the Buds, so coach Mike Babcock will certainly hope that Leivo's ailment doesn't keep him out long. Look for the 23-year-old to be reevaluated ahead of Tuesday's home match with the Panthers.