The Toronto Maple Leafs have recalled defenceman Cole McWard from the AHL’s Toronto Marlies and sent forward Vinni Lettieri down in a corresponding move, according to a Sunday report by The Hockey News’ David Alter, cited by Sportsnet.

The reported roster change adds defensive depth after Morgan Rielly left Saturday’s loss with an injury. The supplied report did not provide an update on Rielly’s condition.

McWard, 25, has spent time with the Maple Leafs this season but has not appeared in a game for the club. He has four assists and a plus-3 rating through seven games with the Marlies.

The right-shot defenceman joined Toronto on a two-year deal in the off-season. He has nine games of NHL experience and one goal.

Lettieri scored once in eight appearances for the Maple Leafs this season. He has also played five games for the Marlies.

Sources