The Toronto Maple Leafs squandered a late lead on Thursday night , losing 3-2 to the San Jose Sharks in overtime on home ice — and they lost one of their most important defensemen in the process.

Oliver Ekman-Larsson, who has managed 20 points in 30 games in 2025-26, exited the game after suffering a lower-body injury. The veteran had to be helped off the ice and did not return.

Although head coach Craig Berube said after the game that OEL would need further evaluation, TSN hockey insider Darren Dreger provided a positive update on the 34-year-old on Friday.

“The news appears to be better than expected for OEL. See how he feels in the morning but, the veteran D-man may test his injury tomorrow and if he feels he can play, he will,” Dreger reported. “Surprising considering the pain h

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