28
Kronwall will replace Colaiacovo on the Toronto Maple Leafs' blueline now that Colaiacovo's season is kaput after he suffered a torn left groin in the first period of the Leafs' 3-1 victory against the New York Islanders on Tuesday.
Injury-riddled Colaiacovo, who has played in only 101 regular-season games in five years with the Leafs, is expected to be on the mend for at least a month before he can begin training for next season. Kronwall, who has had his share of injuries this season, will get another shot to impress Toronto management.
The talented Swede has played only five games in the past three months for the Toronto Marlies of the AHL because of a broken knuckle and a knee injury.
"I feel for Carlo, but I see this as an opportunity for me," said Kronwall, who will play when the Leafs visit the Buffalo Sabres tonight. "I'm in the hunt for a job, whether it's this year or next year."
The Leafs were not optimistic that Mats Sundin will suit up in Buffalo or in Ottawa against the Senators tomorrow, but the captain will make the trip. He did not skate yesterday. Forward Boyd Devereaux, who has been out with a sprained ankle since Feb. 19, also will travel with the Leafs, and there is a possibility he could be play in Ottawa.
