Jani Hakanpaa near Maple Leafs debut, Dewar might play

Article content material

The Maple Leafs are on the cusp of getting a take a look at defenceman Jani Hakanpaa.

Article content material

As soon as the 6-foot-6, 207-pound Hakanpaa will get last medical clearance, the Leafs will energetic him and have the choice to place him within the lineup.

“Actually shut now,” Hakanpaa stated after practising with the Leafs on Monday. “Hopefully quickly we get it going.

“All through the entire course of, it has been day-to-day, you do your finest every day and see what the following day brings. It will get simpler too as a result of you recognize it’s shut. It’s good to be across the boys, so it’s all good.”

Hakanpaa has not performed in a Nationwide Hockey League recreation since March 16 with the Dallas Stars. It has been a protracted restoration from a knee damage for the 32-year-old Finland native and the Leafs took their time earlier than signing him in September to a one-year contract.

In anticipation of taking Hakanpaa off long-term injured reserve, the Leafs on Monday positioned defenceman Matt Benning on waivers.

Article content material

How Leafs coach Craig Berube makes use of Hakanpaa stays to be seen. Toronto’s defence corps has been strong, although one in every of Simon Benoit or Conor Timmins should be scratched.

With captain Auston Matthews uncertain for Tuesday towards the Ottawa Senators, ahead Connor Dewar is anticipated to make his 2024-25 debut after he recovered from low season shoulder surgical procedure.

“He’s only a good participant,” Leafs common supervisor Brad Treliving stated. “No. 1, for him will likely be to stand up to hurry. He has missed a while, however performed with the Marlies, getting these reps, bumping and grinding.

“He has flexibility, can play all three ahead positions, can kill penalties, performs with just a little sand in his recreation, so it will likely be good to get him again.”

tkoshan@postmedia.com

X: @kos

Share this text in your social community