With Jordie Benn nearing a return, the Toronto Maple Leafs have sent Mac Hollowell back to the AHL. Given that the team is heading on the road, Benn’s activation seems imminent.
Hollowell, 24, received a chance to make his NHL debut when the Maple Leafs suffered several injuries to their defense and played six games with the team since November 23. In those matches he registered two points, showing off the offensive upside that made him a fourth-round pick even at his small stature. Still, that 5’9″ frame was also tested by the size and strength of NHL players, especially during his short time killing penalties.
While the Maple Leafs might have a useful depth piece, it seems unlikely that Hollowell will become a full-time option for the team at this point. He was essentially replaced in the lineup by Conor Timmins, who has now played in four straight games and had arguably his best game as a professional last night, recording three assists in 18 minutes of ice time.
With Timmins in place, a healthy T.J. Brodie back in the lineup, and Benn close to a return, the Maple Leafs suddenly seem to have plenty of depth at the position again. Morgan Rielly, Victor Mete, and Carl Dahlstrom remain out, but Toronto now ranks second in the league in terms of goals against, allowing just 70 through their first 30 games. Even if Hollowell’s play was relatively encouraging, it will be difficult for him to get many more opportunities if the group continues to get healthy.
GcmGome
One thing Mac Hollowell showed during his brief stint with the Leafs is that he can suit up for an NHL game and not be a liability. Where he will inevitably find himself in around the 10th or 11th slot in the organizational depth chart when everyone is healthy, that is only true of the Leafs.
With a contract that is expiring this upcoming off season he will be an RFA with arbitration rights. It will be interesting to see what value the Leafs place on him going forward.
toomanyblacksinbaseball
I’m starting to think AHL teams are stacked with “next” guys and potential builders but i’m not moving to Des Moines to find out.