Toronto Marlies rejuvenated since COVID-19 enforced break

The Toronto Marlies have been a more productive team since returning from their extended break during December, but will they be able to continue playing with more consistency?

The Toronto Marlies had to contend with one of professional hockey’s worst COVID-19 outbreaks in December. More than 20 players and staff tested positive for the Coronavirus during this period.

As a result of this outbreak, the Marlies did not play for two weeks. While frustrating at the time, the enforced break appears to have been just what the team needed.

Following a 4-2 loss to the Syracuse Crunch on Dec. 15, Toronto had a record of 10-9-1-1. However, since returning to action they have won four of five games, including a season-best three straight. *

Marlies head coach Greg Moore was asked about what had changed for his team since the break? As per Nick Barden of Leafs Nation, Moore said:

"“Just that they’re working really hard towards getting better every day. You’ve seen it in the game-play trending that way. Their preparation and routine before games and in practice is getting stronger and more consistent, and it’s turning into what we’re seeing in the games. And in return, you’re seeing more confident puck play because of these routines that the guys are building off themselves.”"

You can also argue the players have discovered a renewed appreciation for their craft since the enforced break. No matter how much someone may appreciate and enjoy their profession, they are still guilty of taking it for granted at times.

Regardless, the Marlies are now playing up to their talent level, although questions remain. First and foremost, will they continue to play more consistently for the remainder of the 2021-22 AHL season?

At the time of writing, Toronto is third in the North Division and sixth overall in the Eastern Conference. However, with just 26 games played, there is still a long way to go.

In fairness to the Marlies — as with all teams — their consistency could be impacted by factors outside their control. More specifically, further COVID-19 positive tests and injuries.

Robertson injury update

In terms of injuries, Toronto received some good news regarding Nick Robertson on Monday. As reported by the Toronto Sun‘s Lance Hornby, Moore confirmed the winger has started skating again with the Marlies.

The hope is that Robertson will be in a position to play in a couple of weeks. He has been out of action with a leg injury since mid-October.

Rescheduled games

On Tuesday, the Marlies announced the rescheduling of three games which were postponed as a result of the team’s COVID-19 outbreak. The Dec. 21 contest versus Wilkes-Barre/Scanton will be played on Mar. 22, while the Jan. 7/8 double-header against Laval will now take place on Apr. 27/28.

* This article was posted prior to Wednesday’s contest versus the Belleville Senators.

How confident are you about the Toronto Marlies following their recent run of good form? Do you expect them to be genuine contenders come playoff time? Let us know in the comments section below.