The Toronto Maple Leafs will be without centre John Tavares for at least one game — for good reason.
Tavares and his wife, Aryne, welcomed a new addition to their family Friday: baby boy Tucker.
While practicing in Las Vegas Friday, it was noticed by reporters that Tavares was away from the team for personal reasons.
Toronto next heads to Denver to take on the Colorado Avalanche on Saturday and will conclude its three-game swing out west against the Utah Mammoth on Tuesday.
It's unclear if Tavares might re-join the team in Salt Lake City or just wait for the club to return home to play against the Buffalo Sabres on Thursday.
As Sportsnet's Anna Dua noted, Nick Paul was seen taking reps at practice Friday with the second line, suggesting he will take Tavares' place for the time the veteran will miss.
Through five games played, Tavares has a goal and three points.
The Maple Leafs take on the Avalanche Saturday at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+.
