Bo Groulx is drawing in as Jim Hiller immediately changes the Toronto Maple Leafs lineup after Tuesday night's loss.
Toronto isn't waiting around after dropping its first game of the season. Hiller confirmed Groulx will play Wednesday night against the New York Islanders, though he wouldn't reveal which forward is coming out.
That uncertainty adds another layer to the move. Somebody who dressed Tuesday is losing his spot less than 24 hours later, making this an immediate response from the coaching staff.
Groulx gives Hiller a different option in the bottom six. The 26-year-old centre had already pushed his way into the conversation during training camp and now gets his first opportunity of the regular season.
Hiller had singled out Groulx earlier in camp for his work and professionalism. That matters now, because Toronto needs a quick turnaround on the second half of a back-to-back.
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The timing also makes the decision stand out. This isn't a lineup adjustment after several uneven games; Hiller is changing personnel immediately after opening night.
Jim Hiller wastes no time changing the Leafs
Toronto's bottom six was already one of the more competitive areas of camp. Groulx getting the call means that competition has carried directly into the regular season.
The Maple Leafs are also making a change in the crease. Anthony Stolarz will start against the Islanders after watching Tuesday's opener from the bench.
That gives Hiller fresh legs in goal while Groulx provides another fresh body up front. With consecutive games to open the schedule, Toronto is already leaning into its depth.
Groulx can make the decision harder for Hiller if he delivers a strong night. A fourth-line role can change quickly when a player wins draws, gets in on the forecheck and earns the coach's trust.
There is also pressure on whoever leaves the lineup. Hiller declining to identify that player keeps the attention on Toronto's pregame decisions until the final lineup becomes clear.
For the Leafs, the larger message is straightforward: opening night didn't buy anybody much runway. Hiller is already willing to adjust his bench when he sees an opportunity for a different look.
Groulx now gets his shot against the Islanders. What he does with it could determine whether Wednesday's change lasts beyond one night.
Should Bo Groulx stay in the Maple Leafs lineup if he delivers against the Islanders?
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