One roster change to announce for the Leafs ahead of Game 2

The Leafs came up on the wrong end of a 4-2 decision to Florida in Game 1, and are now trailing the Panthers 1-0 in their 7-game series. There was some speculation that we could see the Leafs revert to an 11F/7D setup for Game 2, and while we're still awaiting confirmation on that, we do know that there will be at least one roster change.

Per NHL Insider Chris Johnston, the Leafs have decided to give Zach Aston-Reese the night off in favour of having the speedy Sam Lafferty draw back into the lineup.


Lafferty has not played since April 27th against Tampa. Through 6 games in these playoffs, Lafferty has managed just 1 lone assist and was a cumulative -3 against the Bolts. Lafferty's speed will be an asset to the Leafs' bottom-6 against a very fast Panthers team.


Lafferty originally came over to the Leafs from the Chicago Blackhawks in the pre-deadline deal that also brought defenseman Jake McCabe to Toronto in what was one of the most impactful moves for the Buds. Both players have term remaining on their deals and will factor into the team's plans next year as well, with McCabe having an additional year of term on his deal. Lafferty had scored 12 goals this season - 10 as a member of the Blackhawks and 2 in 19 regular season games in Toronto. He also tallied a combined 15 assists to finish with 27 points in 70 games.