The Maple Leafs are getting ready for vacation. The team will be released from any immediate obligations shortly after playing tonight against the Blackhawks for their annual bye week. This year the end of the bye week coincides with the All-Star Game break, so there is extra time off, except for Frederik Andersen, Mitch Marner, and Auston Matthews who will be participating in that game.

Yes, it’s going to be a long time until the next game which is on Monday January 27th, so enjoy tonight’s action while you can.

We’ll have a preview of the game out later this morning. And don’t worry, we have lots of interesting things planned for you to read here next week.

Other News

Carolina Hurricanes Dougie Hamilton suffers broken fibula, Jaccob Slavin named to All-Star roster - Canes Country
The Hurricanes will most likely be without their top defenseman until the end of the regular season.

For the Bruins and Backes, it’s an ending that seemed destined from the start - Stanley Cup of Chowder
Everyone hoped for better, but it wasn’t in the cards. David Backes is on waivers to be asigned to the AHL.

Tkachuk clan knows the game is better with more characters - Sportsnet
In the entertainment world Matthew Tkachuk thrives in, we need more leaders who are confident, smart enough and skilled enough to wear the black hat. [Species: We also don't need gigantic pieces of shit though.]

Hockey is for everyone, right? - St. Louis Game Time
The Blues went from completely being all-in on a Pride Night celebration to not even having a night of inclusiveness. And if you’re wondering why inclusiveness matters, just do a simple Google search of why Pride still matters.

'Sometimes it’s tough love': Bond among Leafs' Kapanen, Keefe pays off - Sportsnet
Kapanen and Keefe's relationship dates back to the AHL. There has been some friction along the way, but there are benefits, too. Keefe, still adjusting to life in the NHL, already knows what buttons to push.

From The Branches