Recent Decision Hints At A Secret Toronto Maple Leafs Transaction

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James Connelly
December 26, 2023 (6:02 PM)

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The Toronto Maple Leafs may have just made a secret transaction after one of their top prospects was held out of tonight's Toronto Marlies game.

Hildeby Out Of Marlies Lineup: Secret Transaction Made?

The Toronto Marlies played tonight against the Belleville Senators in their first AHL game following the Holiday Break. They surprised everybody as they kept top goaltender Dennis Hildeby out of the lineup in favor of two other goaltenders.

Marlies throw a curve and don't dress Hildeby today @ SBA vs. Belleville. Clarification hopefully post-game, but if he's not sick and being kept in reserve pending something with the Leafs (who play Ottawa here tomorrow) it's a possibility. Luke Cavallin with first start in goal.

Hildeby has been the Marlies' undisputed number-one goaltender this year posting a 2.08 GAA and a .921 sv%. The scratch has left fans wondering if he is getting sent up to the Leafs once the roster freeze is over and it would not be shocking if he was.

Marlies Coach Provides An Update

UPDATE: After the game, Marlies head coach John Gruden commented on Hildeby's scratch stating it was nothing more than rest.

#Marlies head coach John Gruden says Dennis Hildeby is getting ready for their game tomorrow in Cleveland, which is why he didn't play today.

Gruden also said the team wasn't planning on playing Hildeby in the game before Christmas, but since he did, he's getting some rest.

Marlies coach Gruden confirms Hildeby went ahead of the team to Cleveland to rest for tomorrow's divisional start. Which means nothing up for him and the Leafs for now.

As long as Hildeby keeps up his strong performances and the Leafs continue to struggle in net, it may only be a matter of time before the 6'7" Swede makes it to the NHL.