The Toronto Maple Leafs will open training camp next week without forward Max Domi on the ice, leaving his return date unresolved after complications from off-season surgery. General manager John Chayka told The Canadian Press on Friday that the 31-year-old winger will undergo an assessment when the club officially reconvenes but remains “out indefinitely”.
That distinction matters. Domi is not expected at the rink for the start of camp, but Toronto has not ruled out a future return or provided a timetable.
Chayka said Domi intends to address his condition publicly “at the right time in the near future”. The comment leaves room for another update soon, although it offers no guarantee that the forward will be cleared before camp begins.
No Clear Timeline for Domi
Toronto first disclosed the medical issue on May 25, stating that complications arose after Domi underwent a procedure connected to an injury that had limited him throughout the 2025-26 campaign. The team did not identify the injury or explain the nature of the surgery.
Domi enters the third year of a four-year, US$15-million contract. His latest season produced 36 points, comprising 12 goals and 24 assists, across 80 games.
Those numbers leave questions about whether the veteran winger can again contribute meaningful secondary scoring. Without a return date, the Leafs must also account for the possibility that his recovery could extend well beyond the opening weeks of training camp.
His situation therefore combines medical uncertainty with a substantial roster commitment. Toronto cannot simply wait for a scheduled return; it will need to reassess Domi as his condition develops.
Tanev Provides an Encouraging Sign
There was more positive news involving defenceman Chris Tanev, whose 2025-26 campaign was curtailed by various health problems. After playing just 11 games, the 36-year-old was described by Chayka as “looking great”.
Chayka delivered the update on a video conference call alongside senior executive adviser of hockey operations Mats Sundin. He stressed that the club would not declare Tanev available until the customary medical examination had taken place.
“We never clear a player until the medicals,” Chayka said. “[Tanev] will come and get his medical and be cleared to play at that point, is our expectation. Feels great. Ready to get started.”
Unlike Domi, Tanev appears to be on a path toward clearance, subject to the final medical result. His progress offers Toronto an important source of optimism as the team prepares to organise its defensive corps.
Chayka Faces a Mixed Medical Picture
Chayka was hired in the spring after Toronto missed the playoffs for the first time since 2016. Opening camp will be among his first major tests, with roster construction and player availability coming into focus at the same time.
The Maple Leafs begin with two contrasting medical stories. Domi’s absence is open-ended, while Tanev’s return seems achievable once his examination is completed. Neither situation is entirely settled until the relevant player has been assessed.
That uncertainty will shape camp planning. Toronto must create space for new contributors without assuming that Domi’s initial absence is permanent, while also preparing for the possibility that Tanev will rejoin the lineup shortly after clearance.
Why it Matters