Maple Leafs announce several notable scratches

The Toronto Maple Leafs are back in action tonight against a familiar opponent in what will be a dress rehearsal of their upcoming postseason matchup.

The opening round series between the Leafs and Tampa Bay Lightning, which essentially had been slated to happen since early this year thanks to the updated postseason seeding system, was officially set in stone last week. They'll be taking on one another tonight at Amalie Arena as an appetizer to the main event to come later this month. However, the Leafs will be short several faces for tonight's game in the name of load management.

According to head coach Sheldon Keefe, it will be forwards Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner along with veteran defenseman Mark Giordano who will be watching from the press box. Meanwhile, forward Calle Jarnkrok will make his return to the lineup. 

Tonight's game against the Lightning will begin at 7:00 PM EST.