Max Domi’s NHL Career on Hold After Surgery

Toronto Maple Leafs forward Max Domi has put his NHL career on pause following a recent surgery. The Maple Leafs announced on May 25 that Domi underwent surgery to resolve an issue he managed throughout the 2025-26 season. Though the team did not specify the type of procedure, they stated that Domi will be out indefinitely due to complications from the surgery.

Announcing Domi’s indefinite absence in the middle of the team’s offseason surprised many, especially since Domi played in 80 games during this past season. This unexpected hiatus comes after Domi, wearing #11, skated against the Washington Capitals at Scotiabank Arena on April 8, 2026, in Toronto.

The specifics of Domi’s surgery remain undisclosed by the team, but recent reports suggest that the situation is quite serious. According to a report by the Toronto Sun, Domi underwent a back procedure, and days after the surgery, he was unable to walk.

The report further states that Domi opted for a surgeon of his choosing instead of the one suggested by the Maple Leafs. Choosing personal surgeons is common in professional sports today. “Whatever happened here wasn’t deemed successful. Apparently, Domi could not walk in the days following surgery, which created significant alarm,” journalist Steve Simmons wrote. Domi’s status for the upcoming season is uncertain.

Since joining the Leafs as a free agent in 2023, Domi has been integral to the team, playing in at least 74 games each season and securing a multi-year contract after his initial one-year deal. Previously, Domi was drafted in the first round by the Arizona Coyotes in the 2013 NHL Draft. In the recent 80 games, he scored 12 goals and totaled 36 points.

A native of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Domi recorded a career-high 72 points during the 2018-19 season with the Montreal Canadiens.