Maple Leafs send Nikita Grebenkin to Marlies with Max Domi set to return from injury

Maple Leafs Nikita Grebenkin tangles on the boards with Vegas Golden Knights William Karlsson during first period NHL hockey action in Toronto, on Wednesday, November 20, 2024.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chris Young

Max Domi’s return meant Nikita Grebenkin was out of time with the Maple Leafs — at least for now.

The rookie Russian winger was sent back to the AHL Toronto Marlies on Tuesday as Domi came off long-term injured reserve with a lower-body injury.

While fellow call-up centre Fraser Mintern earned a longer look, Grebenkin’s initial enthusiasm gave way to seven games with no goals and a couple of healthy scratches.

The 22-year-old, 6-foot-2 mid-round draft pick from 2022 did show promise, but as the Leafs forwards return to health after a spate of November injuries, he joins Alex Steeves back on the farm.

The Leafs hope to get Domi up to speed starting Tuesday night in New Jersey. He had been in a prolonged slump with no goals in 19 games as the team as a whole struggles with 5-on-5 goals.

Left winger Max Pacioretty preceded Domi back into the lineup on the weekend, but defenceman Jake McCabe remains out with a head injury.

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