Overview
- Jim Hiller told reporters Monday that Joshua is “dealing with something,” that he is on a return-to-play track and that he is not yet cleared to play.
- Training-camp reports show Joshua has been skating on Toronto’s fourth line as the left winger with Teddy Blueger and Brandon Duhaime.
- Joshua played 55 games last season for the Leafs and scored 10 goals and 8 assists, and he was acquired by Toronto last summer from Vancouver.
- Joshua is one of only two bottom-six forwards who held a full-time role with the Leafs last season, so his absence would force early lineup changes and open minutes for waiver-eligible or fringe options.
- The team has not given a timetable for his return, so the Leafs’ roster for the Sept. 29 home opener against Montreal will depend on daily practice reports and any last-minute medical clearances.