4 Toronto Maple Leafs That Shouldn’t Be on the Playoff Roster

Calle Jarnkrok

When people see the name Calle Jarnkrok on this list, one of their first reactions may be “No way, he has a guaranteed spot for sure, what are you talking about?”

After all, Jarnkrok had been a key player in the Leafs lineup for each of the past two seasons. With the ability to play on any line, along with in all situations whether on the power play or penalty kill, he provides great flexibility for coach Sheldon Keefe on how he can be deployed.

Together with his surprisingly lethal shot, he is perhaps one of the best well-rounded player outside of the core four on the team.

In addition, Jarnkrok scored a career-high 20 goals last season with the Leafs. His numbers may have fallen a bit this season, but it still remains solid with 10 goals and 11 assists for 21 points in 52 games played.

However, after suffering a broken knuckle just months earlier, Jarnkrok has been currently out for almost a month now with a hand injury following a heavy crash into the boards in a game against the Philadelphia Flyers.

There is some uncertainty as to whether or not Jarnkrok will be ready for the playoffs. But the best course of action that the Leafs should take is that if he still hasn’t practiced and begin getting into game shape soon, it may be wise for the Leafs to not include him on the playoff roster to start since it will probably take him some time to get back up to speed after the long layoff.

With the game going at a fast and ferocious pace in the playoffs, playing him could essentially put the Leafs at a disadvantage. However, in reality, the Leafs will likely insert him into the lineup the moment he is deemed ready.

Hopefully, Jarnkrok will surprise us and end up making me eat my own words by being a key difference maker for the Leafs in the playoffs.