Toronto Maple Leafs get worst possible news concerning John Tavares

Tavares went down in the third period of Thursday's 5-4 overtime loss to the Buffalo Sabres after an awkward collision with Josh Norris.

The 36-year-old stayed on the ice for a lengthy stretch before skating off while favouring his left leg, and he did not return.

Tavares has been a steady producer in the early going, putting up two goals and seven points through seven games. That follows a campaign in which he led the Leafs with 31 goals and 71 points while suiting up in all 82 contests. Losing that kind of production and reliability is a real concern for a club sitting sixth in the Atlantic Division at 3-3-2.

Toronto wasted no time adjusting. At Saturday's morning skate, Nick Paul slid into the second-line centre role, flanked by Easton Cowan and Kirill Marchenko.

Marchenko is riding a six-game point streak, so keeping him with a capable pivot matters. The Leafs also face the New York Islanders on Saturday night, so the new look gets tested immediately.

The timing adds pressure. Defenseman Chris Tanev is already on injured reserve and listed as week-to-week, which thins the roster further.

“Week to week” is a broad label, and no firm return date has been offered. That uncertainty puts the spotlight on the depth players, who must now absorb tougher minutes and more offensive responsibility.

For Cowan, the opportunity could be a chance to prove he belongs in a bigger role.

Tavares has also been a mentor for rookie Gavin McKenna this season, so his absence may be felt in the room as much as on the ice.

Toronto will hope the setback proves minor and that he returns sooner rather than later. Leafs fans will be watching closely for further updates as the diagnosis becomes clearer.

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