started · updated
Toronto Maple Leafs receive roster boost with Tavares return and Rifai recall
The Toronto Maple Leafs have received significant roster updates ahead of their game against the Utah Mammoth on October 13, 2026. Forward John Tavares has returned to practice in Salt Lake City following a personal leave related to the birth of his fourth child.
Defensively, the team has undergone changes after Chris Tanev was placed on Injured Reserve due to an upper-body injury sustained during a recent 6-3 victory over the Colorado Avalanche. Marshall Rifai has been recalled from the Toronto Marlies to bolster the defensive unit.
During recent practice sessions, head coach Jim Hiller tested various line combinations, including a second line featuring Tavares, William Nylander, and Easton Cowan.
Entities
Chris Tanev · Colorado Avalanche · John Tavares · Toronto Maple Leafs · Utah Mammoth
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Marshall Rifai was recalled from the Toronto Marlies to fill the defensive spot left by Tanev. heavy.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Practice lines included combinations featuring Auston Matthews, John Tavares, and William Nylander. heavy.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] John Tavares returned to team practice in Salt Lake City on October 12 after an absence for personal reasons. heavy.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Chris Tanev was placed on Injured Reserve following an upper-body injury sustained against the Colorado Avalanche. heavy.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The Toronto Maple Leafs defeated the Colorado Avalanche 6-3. heavy.com