TORONTO – With the Christmas rush in full effect, the Toronto Marlies have issued a statement on upcoming goalie prospect Ian Scott. In the report, the Marlies outlined that Scott suffered an injury in his hip and is expected to return within a minimum of six months. With an injury that is common amongst NHLers, it temporarily puts his pro hockey career on hold.
Scott was signed to a three-year, entry-level contract last year and was selected in the 2017 Entry Level Draft. With this, Ian will get top care from the Maple Leafs organization and is expected to have a speedy recovery.
Scott initially contended for a backup goaltending position with the Marlies in camp, battling with Joseph Woll.
The announcement comes on the heels of what has been a hectic day trying to figure out things in the crease for the Maple Leafs organization. Maksim Zhukov has been recalled to the Toronto Marlies, which looks at the moment to be temporary. Zhukov is currently posting a 0.862 SVS% this season and, according to many fans, has been underperforming. The native of Russia has been in the ECHL thus far this season, and with the move to the Marlies, it could give him the much needed confidence to stop pucks in the crease. Zhukov was pulled in Tuesday’s game against Adirondack.
Additionally, Maple Leafs Head Coach Sheldon Keefe announced that Michael Hutchison is expected to get the start against Detroit on Saturday. Hutchinson has struggled with the big club, plummeting to a 4.55 GAA while still looking for his first win with the Leafs. Many believe that this could be the final straw for Hutchinson — if things do not go his way against the last place Red Wings, Marlies fans can expect him in the crease for the Boxing Day tilt against the Belleville Senators at Scotiabank Arena.
As a possible replacement, the Toronto organization looked towards Eric Comrie. But, earlier this afternoon, Comrie was claimed off waivers by the Winnipeg Jets. Kasmir Kasikuo could have a second chance with the Toronto Maple Leafs if Hutchinson is sent down, but only time will tell.
The Marlies next game comes on Saturday at Belleville. The game will be broadcast on AHL TV at 7:00pm EST.
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Zack is pulling double duty while home from university, covering both the AHL’s Toronto Marlies and the ECHL’s Newfoundland Growlers during his winter break. Follow him on Twitter for all things Marlies and Growlers, and don’t forget to “like” The Sin Bin on Facebook for all other AHL, ECHL, and SPHL minor league hockey coverage!
