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Maple Leafs Morning Skate: Jake McCabe Avoids Eye Injury Scare Ahead of Rangers Clash, Marshall Rifai's Status In Doubt And More

Jake McCabe, who was struck by Kent Johnson's stick near the eye during the Toronto Maple Leafs' 6-2 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets on Tuesday, participated fully in Thursday's morning skate. He is expected to play against the New York Rangers, needing no visor change.

Coach Hiller noted the defender's luck in avoiding a serious injury, while McCabe credited Paul Ayotte and the training staff for their care. McCabe expressed some frustration with younger players' high sticks, though he acknowledged the play was accidental.

Marshall Rifai, who scored his first NHL goal during the last game in Columbus and played nearly 20 minutes, is now uncertain for the upcoming match. Rifai left the morning skate early after pairing with Oliver Ekman-Larsson.

Meanwhile, Auston Matthews continues his scoring streak, having recorded six goals in his last six games and leading the team in scoring through 11 games.

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