Maple Leafs Avoided Frightening Worst-Case With John Tavares

Toronto Maple Leafs forward John Tavares avoided a season-ending injury after suffering an awkward collision against the Buffalo Sabres at Scotiabank Arena on Thursday. Tavares needed assistance leaving the ice after being unable to put weight on his leg. He has officially been designated as week to week and is projected to miss several weeks rather than suffering a torn ACL.

Physician Dr. Harjas Grewal noted that the inward stress to Tavares' right knee suggested an MCL injury or high ankle sprain rather than a torn ACL. Meanwhile, Maple Leafs rookie Gavin McKenna addressed his benching during the third period and overtime of the defeat, expressing his intent to bounce back against the New York Islanders.