The Leafs announced Thursday that Tavares had been placed on IR while listing him as “week-to-week” to make his return. Per the NHL rulebook, Tavares will be forced to miss at least seven days while on IR.

Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving pointed out that "it's not fantasy hockey," and he's right. But it's incumbent upon him to get in front of the market if he's looking for another pivot.

With Tavares out for at least four games, a Maple Leafs team that was already light on centre depth will now see its options tested.