The Toronto Maple Leafs made a large number of reassignments on Wednesday as they look to the regular season, but for Nick Abruzzese it may be a bit tougher.
The Toronto Maple Leafs are looking to have a successful 2024-2025 season and in order to do so, they have to make some tough decisions. On Wednesday, the team announced a large number of roster cuts where several Maple Leafs hopefuls were reassigned to the Toronto Marlies.
One forward however who's path to the Marlies isn't necessarily set in stone is Toronto Marlies forward Nick Abruzzese who the Maple Leafs placed on waivers for the purpose of reassignment:
While this means that if Abruzzese clears the waivers he will go back to join the Marlies, it means that teams are able to snatch up the former USHL standout. It would be a blow to the Marlies, as in his two years with the team he's scored 32 goals and 68 assists while also contributing one goal in 9 games with the Maple Leafs after a callup; scoring the game winner against the Bruins. The Maple Leafs also called him up as some insurance for Game 6 against the Bruins in last year's playoffs, but didn't contribute.
The Maple Leafs re-signed Abruzzese to a two-year, $1.5M contract extension in 2023, and while he hasn't found much time in the NHL all hope isn't lost. He put together a decent preseason showing and will be one of the first Marlies to get a look at a callup if injuries or struggles occur.
It's an unfortunate turn for Nick Abruzzese, but it's not the end for him. If he's able to get past waivers and help the Marlies, he could play himself onto the big club once again.
