Joffrey Lupul To Begin Season On Injured Reserve
Many saw this day coming from a mile away, but on Thursday it was official. Joffrey Lupul will begin the season on injury reserve, which could signify the end of his tenure as a Toronto Maple Leaf.
Since signing his five-year contract extension, in 2013, Joffrey Lupul has played a total of 170 games over the past three seasons. Which is why the Maple Leafs have tried to part ways with Lupul.
However, with two years remaining and a $5.25M cap hit, it’s a tough contract to trade. Add in his injury riddled past and he’s pretty much unmovable.
Last season, management made it clear that they wanted to distance themselves from Lupul. When he had to miss end of last season with a sports hernia, he earned a trip to Robidas Island. Now, there’s no clear answer if he will ever return to the team going forward.
After it was known that Lupul would start the season on IR, he released this statement:
It is with deep regret that I will be unable to attend training camp and start the season with the Leafs due to injury. I pledge to work hard with a view to return to playing this season.
Hockey is the only life I have known. This is an extremely emotional time for me. Accordingly, I will not be making any further comment at this time.
Nazem Kadri had a more positive outlook on Lupul when he stated:
“I think he’s ready to go, and I think he’s pretty excited about the season. What happens is ultimately their decision. We just play hockey.” (Globe and Mail)
Nonetheless, management has other plans for Lupul, there’s no room or a role for him on this team. With so many young players fighting for roster spots, there’s no room for him. All top six roles are filled and Lupul does not really fit the role of a bottom six forward.
Furthermore, the veteran role on the team is now filled. With the likes of Leo Komarov, Matt Martin, Brooks Laich filling the veteran role, they don’t really need Lupul’s experience on the team.
So what’s next for Lupul?
Going forward he needs to focus on his health. Unlike Stephane Robidas, Lupul’s hockey career isn’t necessarily over.
At 32 years-old, he can still choose to play once he’s fully healthy. He may not have a future with the Maple Leafs, but there could be a team willing to take a chance on him once his contract his up.
Here’s hoping he can get a minor league contract somewhere and get a new lease on life.
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