Maple Leaf demoted, signals potential return to the lineup.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have made a relatively minor move, but it may be one that points to something significant on the horizon.

On Sunday, the Maple Leafs sent defenseman Max Lajoie back down to the American Hockey League where he will once again join the ranks of the Toronto Marlies. Lajoie was used in 3 games following his call up to the main roster, playing at home against the Anaheim Ducks as well as on the road against both the St. Louis Blues and Arizona Coyotes. Lajoie has played well when called upon for the Maple Leafs this season with no goals and 1 assist for a total of 1 point over his 7 appearances, and he currently boasts a plus minus rating of +1 with 0 penalty minutes to his name.

Although there has been no official announcement of any kind, many believe that this move signals the return of veteran Maple Leafs defenseman Mark Giordano. Maple Leafs beat reporter Lance Hornby is among those who believe this signals Giordano's return.

The Maple Leafs will still need to make even more room with more returns expected in the coming days, and you have to wonder what form those roster moves will take.