Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Brandon Carlo is facing an extended absence due to complications from a lower-body injury, according to head coach Craig Berube. Berube expressed concern about the situation, stating that Carlo may require surgery following the unexpected turn of events.
This news comes after Berube had previously announced that Carlo experienced a setback and was scheduled to consult with a specialist in Toronto. The Leafs organization has been relatively vague about the specifics of Carlo’s injury, mirroring the undisclosed status of goalie Anthony Stolarz, who has been sidelined since leaving a game against the Boston Bruins on Nov. 11. The timeline for Stolarz’s return remains uncertain, as acknowledged by Berube.
Adding to the defensive woes, the Leafs are also missing Chris Tanev due to an upper-body injury, further straining their lineup. Carlo’s last game was against the Los Angeles Kings on Nov. 13, where he contributed two points in 18 games while averaging over 20 minutes of ice time per game.
Originally traded from the Boston Bruins during last year’s trade deadline, the 29-year-old Carlo has become a crucial part of the Leafs’ defensive core. The trade involved Fraser Minten, a 2025 4th-round pick, and a conditional 1st-round pick in the 2026 draft.
As the team faces upcoming matches against the Florida Panthers and Carolina Hurricanes, the absence of Carlo and other injured players presents a challenge for the Leafs as they strive to maintain their competitive edge in the league.