Forwards Jarnkrok, Kerfoot play defense for injury-riddled Leafs

Forwards Calle Jarnkrok and Alexander Kerfoot took versatility to a new level Wednesday night.

The Toronto Maple Leafs were forced to play the duo on defense in their preseason game against the Montreal Canadiens when Jordie Benn and Carl Dahlstrom went down with a groin and a shoulder injury, respectively. Head coach Sheldon Keefe confirmed postgame that both are expected to miss "some time."

Keefe opted for the move with Toronto having just four healthy defensemen. In addition to Benn and Dahlstrom, Timothy Liljegren is out until at least early November following hernia surgery, while Rasmus Sandin remains unsigned.

Jarnkrok played alongside Morgan Rielly, while Kerfoot was paired with T.J. Brodie.

Toronto begins its regular season Oct. 12 against the Canadiens.