In a somewhat surprising move, the Maple Leafs have called up Kevin Gravel from the Marlies. Gravel last played a game on November 9, and has three games in the NHL and eight in the AHL this season.
Todd Crocker reported on the broadcast of the last Marlies game that Gravel was almost ready to return, but it is a bit unusual to have him return in an NHL practice without any AHL game time. The Marlies play tonight at home and tomorrow afternoon as well.
The Maple Leafs have a two-game homestand with games on Saturday and Monday, and Gravel has been added as the 23rd man, replacing Tyler Gaudet who was sent down yesterday.