Roman Polak (ankle) practiced with the team Wednesday, David Alter of MapleLeafs.com reports.

Polak (ankle) practiced with the team Wednesday, David Alter of MapleLeafs.com reports.

Analysis:

Polak's participation in practice, as well as the Leafs' decision to waive Brandon Kozun after the session to create roster space, suggests that the defenseman is on track to return to the lineup Thursday against the Hurricanes. The Leafs have been playing their best hockey of the season at the moment without the services of Polak, but his skills as a hitter and penalty killer will certainly make his imminent return a welcome development.