Hakanpaa started off the year on the long-term injured reserve and there was a sense that he might not be able to play professional hockey anymore.
However, Hakanpaa eventually recovered and played some games with the Toronto Marlies as part of a conditioning stint.
Unfortunately, upon his return to the Maple Leafs, Jani Hakanpaa was not given many opportunities to showcase his worth.
Overall, he has only played two games with the team, and he wasn't particularly impressive during those outings.
It has led to speculation about Hakanpaa's injury and whether or not it was still bothering him.
Well, today we got our answer as the Maple Leafs put Hakanpaa on the injured reserve, retroactive to November 16th.
In the meantime, the Leafs have opted to call up Marshall Rifai from the Marlies. This will be his first stint with the Leafs this season.
Rifai has only played two games with the Toronto Maple Leafs in his career.
Meanwhile, this season with the Marlies, Rifai has two goals and two assists in the first 17 games. He is also a +10 which showcases his defensive skill.
Ultimately, time will tell whether or not Hakanpaa is going to be able to continue his career. This latest news is very concerning and it was something that fans have been worried about for some time.
If you're Brad Treliving, you can't help but regret the signing, as the circumstances never really felt right.
POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 2 | 129 ANSWERS Jani Hakanpaa situation goes from bad to worse following latest announcement Should the Maple Leafs be worried about Jani Hakanpaa? | ||
YES | 89 | 69 % |
NO | 40 | 31 % |
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