Leafs avoid loophole, call up Soshnikov

The Toronto Maple Leafs have recalled forward Nikita Soshnikov from the Toronto Marlies, ensuring the Russian remains with the organization at least for the time being. The 24-yearold Soshnikov reportedly has a clause in his contact allowing him to return to Russia if he was not in the NHL by Nov. 14. Soshnikov ranked second in scoring with the Marlies with 12 points this season on five goals and seven assists. He saw action in 56 games last season for the Leafs, collecting five goals and four assists. Soshnikov signed with the Leafs as a free agent in 2014. He will be a restricted free agent on July 1.