Maple Leafs' Brodie returns after 12-game absence

Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman T.J. Brodie got back into the lineup for Thursday's clash against the Los Angeles Kings after missing 12 games with an oblique injury.

Brodie was to be deployed with multiple partners throughout the contest, Maple Leafs head coach Sheldon Keefe said before the tilt, according to Sports Illustrated's David Alter. Here's how the Leafs lined up at practice:

Brodie's return indicates the Leafs are getting closer to full strength on the back end. In addition to Brodie, Morgan Rielly was sidelined with a knee injury, while Jake Muzzin was placed on long-term injured reserve.

Toronto managed to pile up victories despite the slew of injuries, going 7-0-3 in its previous 10 games to move into second place in the Atlantic Division with 38 points.

Brodie recorded two points in 15 appearances this season while averaging 21:23 per game before sustaining the injury.