Nick Blankenburg sustained an upper-body injury during Toronto’s 5-4 victory over the New York Rangers (Getty Images)
Both blueliners were considered significant additions to the club, with Blankenburg recording one goal and one assist in six games this season, averaging just over 13 minutes of ice time per game. Though Rifai has no goals and one assist in seven games for the Marlies this season, he had one goal and no assists in 11 games for the Leafs last season. Nick Blankenburg sustained an upper-body injury during Toronto’s 5-4 victory over the New York Rangers on Thursday. The injury occurred when the 28-year-old was hit hard into the boards by Rangers forward Will Cuylle in the third period, making it difficult for him to return to the game. As per reports, Blankenburg played last season between the Nashville Predators and Colorado Avalanche, registering around eight goals and 16 assists for 24 points over a total of 61 games. His injury comes shortly after he scored his first career NHL goal in the Maple Leafs’ 6-2 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets on Tuesday. The Maple Leafs defenseman has recorded one goal in two appearances for Toronto this season, averaging slightly more than 14 minutes of ice time per game. With two defensemen sidelined and two replacements arriving from the AHL, the Maple Leafs will look to maintain their recent momentum while managing a growing injury concerns early in the 2026-27 NHL season.
Leafs defensemen Nick Blankenburg and Marshall Rifai were placed on injured reserve, according to reports. The Toronto Maple Leafs have suffered another major setback on the blue line after placing two defensemen on injured reserve. In response to this unfortunate injury concern, the team has recalled defensemen Dakota Mermis and Cole McWard from its American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate to strengthen its defensive lineup as injuries continue to affect its roster. Meanwhile, Rifai is expected to miss time with a lower-body injury and is considered week-to-week. In addition to this, other relevant players such as forward John Tavares and defenseman Chris Tavev are each considered week-to-week with their respective injuries.