The Toronto Maple Leafs Make Emergency Call-Up Ahead of Battle of Ontario

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Chris Gerics
November 12, 2024 (10:36)

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The Toronto Maple Leafs decided to call up long-time Marlies forward Alex Steeves ahead of their clash with the Ottawa Senators on Tuesday.

With the numerous injuries piling up for the Maple Leafs, the team looks to keep their momentum going forward Tuesday night against the Ottawa Senators. Riding a three-game win streak, Toronto has found success without their captain Auston Matthews, currently absent with an injury:

Toronto has relied on John Tavares, William Nylander, and Mitch Marner in his absence, and the fact that the Core Four can succeed without their captain is a great sign. However, Toronto isn't going to take any chances when it comes to insurance.

The team announced on Tuesday they have recalled Toronto Marlies forward Alex Steeves on an emergency basis:

Toronto is bringing Steeves aboard as they're currently dealing with another severe injury as Max Pacioretty is set to be out for the next few weeks, and Steeves' call-up gives Brad Treliving a little bit of extra time to work out how his roster is going to look.

Who Is Alex Steeves?

Alex Steeves, a standout at Notre Dame, has been in Toronto's system since 2021, where he debuted with the Maple Leafs and played in three games, getting one assist in the process.

Bouncing around between the Marlies and the Maple Leafs sporadically, Steeves has been a key piece in the massive success the Marlies have found in recent years. Over his 198 AHL games he has 78 goals and 176 points, and is a very underrated player that has been turning heads this season:

A natural center, Steeves gives Toronto a look at a new center that could very well be a key part of their plans going forward. Only 24 years old, Steeves has a load of potential and could be poised to be a solid NHLer for the foreseeable future.

He was placed on waivers earlier in the season in a roster shuffle, but that was more for making sure he gets to the Marlies and nothing about feeling like he doesn't have a place in their future plans.

Brad Treliving is keen to see what Steeves can offer it looks like, as he's been lights out this season alongside Alex Nylander, Nikita Grebenkin, and Logan Shaw; combining for 38 points in only 10 games played. The future looks bright for the Maple Leafs, and Steeves being called upon shows they like what they see.