Toronto Maple Leafs: Kapanen Recalled, Soshnikov to I.R

Earlier today, the Toronto Maple Leafs announced that Kasperi Kapanen has been recalled from the Toronto Marlies.

In a corresponding move, the Toronto Maple Leafs also placed Nikita Soshnikov on the injured reserve.

Soshnikov

Let’s begin by talking about Soshnikov.

Nikita Soshnikov was called up to the Leafs on November 14th in a move by Lou Lamoriello to ensure that he didn’t pack up his bags and head back to Mother Russia. Since being called up to the Leafs, it was evident that something was wrong was Soshnikov. He hasn’t played in a single game since November 24th against the Carolina Hurricanes and only played in three games since being called up in which he hadn’t registered a single point.

This morning, he was placed on IR and at this time there is no exact timetable for his return.

I’d expect the Leafs to take their time bringing Soshnikov back. There is zero urgency. The Leafs have a ton of depth on the Leafs and on the Marlies.

To replace Soshnikov, Lamoriello decided to recall Kapanen.

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Kasperi Is Back At The ACC

The Leafs will immediately benefit from Kapanen’s speed and defensive game.

Kapanen has looked excellent as of late for the Marlies. In 16 games this season for the Marlies, he has totaled 8 goals and 4 assists. Additionally, he’s been a dominant force on the Marlies power-play. He’s scored half of his goals on the power-play and could potentially find his way on Mike Babcock’s power-play unit.

On Friday night against the Laval Rocket, Kapanen had a electrifying goal on a Marlies’ powerplay in the first period. Kerby Rychel set up the goal beautifully to allow Kapanen to snipe the puck behind Rocket goaltender, Charlie Lindgren.

It’s been clear for some time now that Kapanen is a legit NHL player.  The only reason he’s in the AHL is to get ice time.  It is reasonable to assume that he is ahead of both Josh Leivo and Soshnikov on the depth chart.

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Hopefully this time he can stick.  He’s been one of the Toronto Maple Leafs top prospects for a while now, and he’s always performed when given a chance.  If Kapanen played for virtually any other franchise, he’d be an NHL regular by now.  The Leafs are one of the worst defensive teams in hockey, and while Kapanen isn’t likely to challenge for the Selke any time soon, his speed and defensive awareness (to say nothing of his decent offensive skills) are things any team could use.  Once the Leafs clear out their current log jam at centre, Kapanen (unless he’s traded) stands to be the prime beneficiary.