The Toronto Maple Leafs could have to go a bit longer without one of their forwards.
Forward Max Pacioretty has been placed on the injured reserve with an undisclosed injury, the team announced Friday.
Defenceman Marshall Rifai has been recalled from the American Hockey League in a corresponding move.
Pacioretty hasn't suited up for a game since Feb. 8, the team's final game before the 4 Nations Face-Off break. According to head coach Craig Berube, Pacioretty tweaked something during a practice last week Wednesday.
He rejoined the team's practice this week Wednesday, but will instead head to the IR instead of returning for Friday's game against the New York Rangers.
The 36-year-old has been limited to 37 games this season due to injuries and has five goals and eight assists.
Rifai, meanwhile, has yet to suit up for the Maple Leafs this season. In 44 games with the Marlies, the 26-year-old has three goals, six assists and is a plus-7 on the year.
The Maple Leafs return to action on Friday as they visit Madison Square Garden to face the Rangers at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT on Sportsnet Ontario and Sportsnet+.
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