The Toronto Maple Leafs received welcome news as Oliver Ekman-Larsson participated fully in practice today, avoiding what could have been another significant injury on an already battered blueline. Ekman-Larsson left Saturday’s game against the Pittsburgh Penguins in the third period with an upper-body injury and did not return, raising immediate concerns about his status.
One Toronto Maple Leafs Injury Not to Worry About
Before exiting the game, the veteran defender delivered one of his strongest performances of the season, recording a goal and an assist. His first-period tally opened the scoring and set the tone for Toronto in their dominant 7–2 win. Losing him for any stretch of time would have been a major setback, especially given the Leafs’ current defensive situation.
A Steady, Veteran Presence on the Backend
Through 25 games this season, Ekman-Larsson has been one of Toronto’s most reliable performers. He has totaled four goals and 16 assists for 20 points production, which places him among the NHL’s more impactful offensive defencemen.
His impressive nine-game point streak stands as the second-longest by a defenceman in Maple Leafs franchise history, a testament to both his consistency and the critical role he plays in driving offence from the blueline. With Brandon Carlo and Chris Tanev sidelined indefinitely, Ekman-Larsson has stepped up as a top-pairing defender alongside Morgan Rielly, absorbing heavy minutes and difficult matchups each night.
A Career Revitalized in Toronto
Oliver Ekman-Larsson’s journey to Toronto has been anything but linear. Drafted sixth overall in 2009 by the Phoenix Coyotes, he developed into their No. 1 defenceman, posting a career-high 55 points in 75 games during his prime years. Known for his smooth skating, elite puck movement, and power-play poise, he was one of the league’s premier offensive blueliners for nearly a decade.
His subsequent two-year stint with the Vancouver Canucks, however, was turbulent. Struggles with production and consistency led many to question whether he could still be an impactful NHL defenseman. His best season in Vancouver saw him record just 29 points. The contract later let to a buyout.
A move to the Florida Panthers helped reinvigorate his play. Serving as a power-play quarterback and reliable veteran presence, Ekman-Larsson played an important role in Florida’s Stanley Cup victory, his first championship and a defining moment late in his career.
Now in Toronto, he has fully rejuvenated his game. Not only is he producing offensively, but he is also providing stability, leadership, and poise to a Leafs team navigating injuries and inconsistency.
What Ekman-Larsson Means Moving Forward
Ekman-Larsson has two years remaining on his contract with the Maple Leafs at a $3.5 million average annual value. That is exceptional value considering his production, experience, and importance to the defensive core. Leafs fans are hopeful that he can maintain this resurgence, as a dependable top-four defenceman with Stanley Cup pedigree is exactly the stabilizing force this roster needs.
If he continues playing at his current level, Ekman-Larsson could prove to be one of Toronto’s most impactful additions in recent years both on the ice and in the locker room.
Main Photo Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
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