Maple Leafs Call Up Marshall Rifai from AHL Marlies: Who’s He?

In 2018-19, Rifai then moved to collegiate hockey, where he competed in the Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) for Harvard University. He played there for three seasons. In 2022-23, he moved to the AHl and signed a contract on July 1, 2023. There he’s continued his defensive development. His solid play in the AHL earned him a call-up yesterday.

Sheldon Keefe Praises Rifai’s Attributes

In an interview yesterday, Maple Leafs’ head coach Sheldon Keefe shared his satisfaction with Rifai’s development after the defenseman’s recall from the Marlies. Keefe highlighted Rifai’s NHL attributes, including his strong skating ability, agility on the ice, physicality, and competitiveness.

Keefe emphasized Rifai’s progress and comfort level. He noted that the young defenseman has worked hard to prepare for this opportunity. Despite facing challenges last year, Rifai has shown significant improvement and readiness for NHL action.

Given the current Maple Leafs’ paucity on defence, it will be a good chance for Rifai to show his growth as a player. So far, the team’s defensemen have covered for the holes well. Perhaps tomorrow a new youngster will find himself on NHL ice, Maple Leafs fans can only hope With the organization’s confidence in his abilities, Rifai looks poised to make a meaningful contribution to the team’s success in the upcoming games.