Florida Panthers forward Joe Thornton (undisclosed) is expected to be back in the lineup Tuesday against San Jose. The former Shark hasn't played since Jan. 31. Thornton sits on only six points for the campaign, but he's been practicing on the top line ahead of his return and it should give him a good chance to make a productive return to the lineup. Maxim Mamin couldn't get much going with Aleksander Barkov and Carter Verhaeghe and will drop to the fourth line.
Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Jake Muzzin and forward Joe Thornton won't play against Calgary on Monday. Muzzin has a broken bone in his face and his return date is unknown, while Thornton is listed as day-to-day with an undisclosed injury. Muzzin had a poor minus-two outing against Montreal at the weekend, but the 31-year-old has been in great form this season with 12 points across 19 outings, 35 blocks, 33 shots, and 33 hits. Thornton had also been rolling lately with seven points in four games. They join Zach Hyman (undisclosed) on the sidelines.
Auston Matthews, Joe Thornton Will Miss Friday's Matchup
Toronto Maple Leafs forwards Auston Matthews and Joe Thornton won't take the ice Friday night against the Oilers. Matthews is listed day-to-day with an undisclosed issue, while Thornton has been placed on long-term injured reserve with an upper-body problem. Toronto's new-look top line will likely consist of Mitchell Marner, Jimmy Vesey, and Adam Brooks. Marner has been in great form with six points in five games, so Vesey and Brooks will be in a great spot to perform. The latter is set to feature on the team's first power-play unit as well.
Toronto Maple Leafs forward Joe Thornton started training camp alongside Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner. The 41-year-old skated alongside the duo during both days of practice, suggesting he will start the season on their line. Thornton only recorded 31 points in 70 games for the Sharks last season, but in a far lesser role. He is worthy of a speculative pick towards the end of fantasy drafts, as exposure to the two Maple Leafs' stars gives his fantasy stock a significant boost.
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