The Leafs host the Blackhawks tonight on Hockey Night in Canada. The Leafs need all the wins they can get to close out the season and make the playoffs. Also on the line tonight are bragging rights in the van Riemsdyk family for Trevor and James.

We’ll have a preview of the game later this morning.

The Athletic meets in Toronto for Blackhawks-Maple Leafs clash
Scott Powers and David Alter talk about tonight’s Leafs - Blackhawks clash.

Kasimir Kaskisuo made his season debut for the Marlies last night vs. the Binghamton Senators and picked up a win.

Marlies dump Senators at Ricoh 4-2 - ChristopherHat
Marlies win first of back-to-back games vs. the Senators

In other Leafs news, they signed a guy you have never heard of. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Leafs sign KHL standout forward Miro Aaltonen - Wheeler
The Leafs have added one of the top young players in the KHL.

Other News

NWHL makes a statement to support US national team players boycott - The Ice Garden
The NWHL began the Isobel Cup Playoffs with a show of solidarity.

An Open Letter To USA Hockey: Be Bold For Change - SCoC
It's time to either get with the program, or get out the way of progress. Be Bold For Change.

Transcript: Stamkos calls this injury the “toughest” of his career - Raw Charge
Stamkos addresses the media for the first time since suffering a torn meniscus in November.

Systems Analyst: Jaccob Slavin’s Milestone Night - Canes Country
A breakdown of a star defenceman flying under the radar  of many NHL fans.

‘Evolved’ Julien enjoying greater pool of talent in second stint with Habs - G&M
Julien, a roofer’s son who grew up just east of Ottawa, has enjoyed success since he first picked up a whistle.

Melnyk: Erik Karlsson won't go to Olympics if all NHLers don't - Ottawa Citizen
“No, no, it would be no, a flat no,” he said thinking his opinion mattered to Karlsson.

Senators and NHL Announce NHL 100 Classic - SSS
Sens will host the Habs for a game at TD Place in December.

The Stars looked like they were on auto-pilot in their loss to the Flames last night. Also: the Flames are good.

From The Branches