Babcock rejoins Leafs
nowadays, it’s something I definitely didn’t have (breaking into the NHL) and wish I did. It’s been fun to watch them all here and see them progress already. A lot of them will be able to make an impact right away.”
Bozak, who wasn’t exactly Mr. Universe when he started, said Marner is overcoming a perceived weight and muscle question.
“I’m sure Mitch gets that (criticism), too. I’m sure it shouldn’t matter. There’s not the clutching and grabbing. He’s so smart, he knows how to elude checks, how to use his body the best he can in one-on-one battles. I’ve seen him out there against big guys and he wins those battles, uses his body, his weight.”
Former Sabre Jhonas Enroth will make his debut in goal Friday for some or all of the game with Antoine Bibeau on the trip as well.
After his practice group departed, injured No. 1 Frederik Andersen said he is on schedule to return from an upper body issue and says he’d like an exhibition game start if possible.
“I feel pretty good, taking more and more shots,” Andersen said. “Getting my game-feel back is pretty important. It’s been a blessing in disguise; getting the small things done, a new place to live, meeting all the new teammates.”
“We don’t really have an exact plan to start, just keep being smart about it. We’ve been patient about it so far and it’s paid off. We don’t have to takes risks and we still have time to get a game or two in. But it’s most important to be healthy.”
Forwards William Nylander, Dmytro Timashov and Andreas Johnsson were also headed to Buffalo, with defenceman Andrew Nielsen. The Leafs record after a shootout loss to Buffalo in St. Catharines is 0-1-1.