The Toronto Maple Leafs are dealing with a major loss after forward Matthew Knies was injured following a hit from Vegas Golden Knights defenseman Zach Whitecloud during Wednesday’s game at Scotiabank Arena. The team announced today that Knies has been placed on Injured Reserve, creating a void in their lineup.

To fill the spot, the Leafs have signed forward Alex Nylander, the younger brother of star forward William Nylander, to a one-year contract. Alex, who was drafted 8th overall by the Buffalo Sabres in the 2016 NHL Draft, has been playing for the Toronto Marlies in the AHL this season.

Toronto Maple Leafs players, including Simon Benoit, are still upset about the hit that knocked Matthew Knies out of the lineup. Benoit, who confronted Zach Whitecloud after the hit, expressed his frustration with the play, stating, “I think his feet were off the ice when he hit Kniesy right to the head, so I had to go in there and just protect my teammate. It was just not a good hit, I don’t think it’s a good call.”

On the other hand, Vegas Golden Knights head coach Craig Berube didn’t share the same sentiment. He defended the hit, calling it a part of the game. “It’s a hockey hit. It’s been around forever, it’s a clean hit,” Berube said. “It’s a tough play. He’s in a vulnerable position a little bit. The guy was on him from behind and it’s a tough play. It is, but it’s hockey. That’s part of the game.”