Toronto Maple Leafs Recall Marshall Rifai, Place Jani Hakanpaa On IR

The Toronto Maple Leafs announced they have recalled defenseman Marshall Rifai from the Toronto Marlies and placed Jani Hakanpaa on injured reserve.

Rifai has recorded two goals and four points in 17 games for the Marlies this season, playing in all situations

The 26-year-old made his NHL debut and played two games for the Maple Leafs last season, averaging 11:40 of ice time.

Hakanpaa has not played since Nov. 16 against he Edmonton Oilers as he continues to deal with a lingering knee issue.

With Jake McCabe day-to-day and Hakanpaa out there is a good chance Philippe Myers or Rifai play for the Maple Leafs this week. Toronto plays five games in the next eight days.

Rifai signed a two-year contract extension with Toronto in October.

The Marlies next games come Friday and Saturday against the Laval Rocket.

The Hockey News Toronto dove into Hakanpaa's health issues here.

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