Maple Leafs’ Dakota Joshua Suffering From Internal Bleeding After Injury
Dakota Joshua has faced a challenging start to his tenure with the Toronto Maple Leafs. After being acquired from the Vancouver Canucks this summer, Joshua initially struggled to find his footing, finding himself a healthy scratch earlier in the season. However, he bounced back recently after developing chemistry with Nicholas Roy on the third line. Through 36 games this season, Joshua has recorded 6 goals and 4 assists while anchoring a primarily defensive role.
Unfortunately, it appears the forward suffered a significant injury on Sunday night. According to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, Joshua remains in Detroit after sustaining an injury to his kidney.
Dakota Joshua still in Detroit
Took a hit or went into boards “or something.” Kidney injury. Wish all the best to him
Nylander day-to-day still
Tanev will have a better idea later today/tomorrow. Again, not related to previous injury — but could be some time
Matthews…
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) December 30, 2025
The head coach elaborated on the situation, confirming that Joshua took a hit that caused bleeding in his kidney, an incident that clearly left the player in distress.
Craig Berube on Dakota Joshua’s injury: “Joshua is still in Detroit. Whether he took a hit or went into the boards, it’s his kidney. It’s got blood and everything, so we got to see where he’s at, too.”
— Arun Srinivasan (@Arunthings) December 30, 2025
While Joshua finished the game, he was unable to travel with the team to New Jersey for tonight’s match up. There has been no update regarding his long-term status, but any situation involving internal bleeding suggests he will not be seeing a quick turnaround.
After battling through testicular cancer last season with the Canucks, this serves as another difficult setback for Joshua, who has consistently shown a level of fire and determination that few players possess. At this time, we wait for further updates on his condition, but ultimately, the player’s health comes first and we hope the best for Joshua through this situation.
