McClement has six goals and 12 assists in 61 games with the Hurricanes this season. He leads the team in face-off percentage (55.3%) and shorthanded time per game (2:24). He was a pending unrestricted free agent this offseason, but is now signed through the 2016-17 season.
According to coach Bill Peters, McClement is battling gastrointestinal issues and may not be in the lineup tonight. If McClement can’t go expect Jay Harrison will dress and the Hurricanes to go with seven defensemen.
McClement, 31, spent the last two seasons with the Maple Leafs. He had 10 points (4G / 6A) in 81 games last year, but it all about his two-way game and penalty killing. McClement ranked tied for first in the NHL amongst forwards averaging 3:25 shorthanded TOI.
McClement will centre the Leafs fourth line with Fraser McLaren and Colton Orr on his wings. His linemates are better known for their fists than their hands and he has two assists in 26 games. He is a great two-way forward but not a serviceable fantasy asset by any means.
Josh Leivo would likely remain in the Maple Leafs lineup should McClement be unavailable.
McClement's wife went into labour this morning.
