Leafs Loan Defenseman to AHL as Olympic Break Begins
As the NHL enters its break for the 2026 Winter Olympics, the Toronto Maple Leafs have made a strategic move concerning their defenseman. With no NHL games played until after the Olympics, the Leafs have reassigned Marshall Rifai to the AHL’s Toronto Marlies.
Marshall Rifai’s AHL Assignment
The Leafs announced this decision on February 6, 2026. This move allows Rifai to gain valuable playtime while the NHL takes a hiatus. The 27-year-old had previously missed the early part of the season due to injury but returned to play 12 games for the Marlies in late December. Now, he is set to rejoin the Marlies just as they prepare for a matchup against the Springfield Thunderbirds.
Impact on the Maple Leafs
During the Olympic break, the rest of the Maple Leafs roster will be off, focusing on recovery or vacation. Meanwhile, Rifai aims to keep his skills sharp, hoping to return to the NHL when the league resumes its schedule. The Leafs face a challenging remainder of the season, with 25 games left and currently positioned outside playoff contention.
Trade Rumors and Future Opportunities
As the Maple Leafs evaluate their team, they may look to trade some defensemen before the March 6 trade deadline. Notable names like Oliver Ekman-Larsson, Brandon Carlo, and Simon Benoit are under consideration for potential trades. Should this occur, it could open opportunities for Rifai to step up and secure a more significant role within the team.
- Rifai’s current contract: $775,000 AAV through next season
- Becoming an unrestricted free agent in 2027
- Potential for increased playing time in the absence of traded players
The upcoming weeks are crucial for both the Maple Leafs and Marshall Rifai. As he takes advantage of his time in the AHL, all eyes will be on his performance and future opportunities as the NHL season progresses.
