Mitch Marner placed on Long Term Injury by the Toronto Maple Leafs

The Toronto Maple Leafs have kept the timeline for Mitch Marner's return to the lineup pretty close to their chest, as he continues to recover from a high-ankle injury that he suffered against the Boston Bruins a few weeks ago. Marner, who had some sharp responses to the media regarding his injury earlier this week, was reported to be close to a potential return and was even skating with the team.

Now, it appears the Leafs are taking advantage of his missed time, placing him on the LTIR list. As Elliotte Friedman points out, this is likely just a cap move, as he is eligible for return as early as this week.

Rushing Mitch Marner back to play this late in the season would be a mistake, as the Leafs will need him at 100 percent come playoff time. As long as the Leafs continue the moderate success that they have had without him, I would give him all the rest he needs, and use his cap relief to call up anyone who may be able to help the Leafs in the playoffs.

We will see how long Mitch Marner remains on the LTIR list.