Jani Hakanpaa has only played two games with the Leafs so far this season as he continued to deal with a nagging knee injury that has left him incapacitated.
However, the defenseman is starting to feel better and has even been participating in a plethora of practices.
He has become a mainstay at the Maple Leafs practice and there have been rumblings about his playing status as the Four Nations Face-Off approaches.
While speaking to the media, Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube gave his thoughts on the Hakanpaa situation and whether or not you can expect the defenseman to return soon.
At this stage, there is no telling whether or not Hakanpaa will return to the lineup before the playoffs.
That said, it is still good to see that he is making progress and showing people that his career isn't over, which was a real fear a few months back.
Overall, the Toronto Maple Leafs are deep on the blue line and Hakanpaa is someone who can block shots which is what you need come playoff time.
Hopefully, he is able to keep his progress on a steady path. It is easy to have a setback when you're dealing with the knee.
Meanwhile, the Leafs are feeling good about themselves as they are on a three-game winning streak.
POLL | ||
JANVIER 21 | 172 ANSWERS Craig Berube Delivers Unexpected Positive Update On Jani Hakanpaa Do you believe Jani Hakanpaa will be ready to play for the Toronto Maple Leafs by the postseason? | ||
YES | 111 | 64.5 % |
NO | 61 | 35.5 % |
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