Maple Leafs Recall Rifai, Reassign Mermis and Thrun to AHL
The Toronto Maple Leafs are making significant roster adjustments as they attempt to improve their performance during a five-game losing streak. The team has announced the recall of defenseman Rifai and the reassignment of both Mermis and Thrun to the American Hockey League (AHL).
Maple Leafs Recall Rifai
Rifai, a 27-year-old defenseman, has faced challenges this season. He has participated in only 12 games with the Toronto Marlies since undergoing wrist surgery after a pre-season injury on September 25. Despite the setback, he has managed to record four assists this season and has a total of nine goals and 43 assists in his AHL career spanning four seasons. Notably, Rifai made his NHL debut for the Maple Leafs during the 2023-24 season but did not manage to score in two appearances.
Mermis and Thrun Reassigned
- Mermis: Has not been highlighted for recall this season.
- Thrun: At 24 years old, he has had a challenging start with the Maple Leafs. Having been acquired from the San Jose Sharks in the off-season for Ryan Reaves, Thrun’s performance consists of four games where he is recorded as minus-1. Over his four NHL seasons, he has accumulated 25 points (five goals, 20 assists) across 123 games.
As the Maple Leafs head to Seattle to face the Kraken, they are currently eight points behind the second wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference. This upcoming matchup is part of a crucial six-game road trip that will test the team’s resilience and depth amid ongoing struggles.
