Toronto Maple Leafs defenceman Jake McCabe will return to the lineup after missing the past four games with an upper-body injury. McCabe suffered the injury on January 5 after getting into a fight with Philadelphia Flyers forward Garnet Hathaway.

McCabe took part in his first full practice since he was injured in a fight with Philadelphia Flyers forward Garnet Hathaway.

Toronto Maple Leafs defenceman Jake McCabe appears to be closing in on his return to the lineup soon. He has been an active participant in the regular jerseys at recent practices and morning skates, including Wednesday’s practice where he was once again skating with the main group.

Jake McCabe confirmed that he plans to play against the New Jersey Devils after missing the last four games with an upper-body injury.

Although small, Dreger also provided an update on Anthony Stolarz, who's been out with a knee injury since Dec. 12 against the Ducks. "End of January, first week of Feb," Dreger said of Stolarz's reported return date.

The Maple Leafs sent a defenseman to the Mariles on Wednesday, confirming a report from TSN's Darren Dreger regarding the imminent return of Jake McCabe.

Maple Leafs D Jake McCabe has been placed on IR (retroactive to January 5). D Marshall Rifai has been recalled from the Toronto Marlies (AHL). It appeared that McCabe's head made contact with the ice. As he attempted to get on his knees, he fell backwards and needed help from fellow defenseman Morgan Rielly.

With McCabe out with an injury until at least Jan. 14, the upcoming slate for the Leafs could test their mettle as a contender.

Late in the first period, McCabe engaged in a fight with Flyers forward Garnet Hathaway. The altercation stemmed from an earlier collision between Hathaway and Leafs goaltender Dennis Hildeby. McCabe, defending his teammate, initiated the fight but quickly found himself on the losing end with the fight ending in a worrying way.