Toronto Maple Leafs forward Michael Bunting left Saturday's game against the Florida Panthers and is going to miss some time, head coach Sheldon Keefe told reporters after the gane.

"He's going to miss some time, for sure," said Keefe. "I don't know how much."

He was not on the bench to begin the second frame and was ruled out for the night shortly after.

The 26-year-old was hit in the face on a clearing attempt by Florida's Eetu Luostarinen, causing him to fall backward. Keefe said after the game it was not the puck that injured Bunting, who instead is dealing with a right leg injury.

Colin Blackwell took Bunting's spot on the top line alongside Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner following the injury. The Panthers went on to win 3-2 in overtime on a winner by Brandon Montour.

Bunting has 23 goals and 40 assists in 78 games so far this season, his first with the Maple Leafs since joining them last summer.

Meanwhile, Matthews made his return Saturday night after missing the last three games. He was held without a point in 21:40 of ice time.

When asked about Sunday's game against the Washington Capitals, Matthews said he hopes to be in there.

"I definitely want to play," Matthews said. "We'll manage it and see how it is tomorrow."

The Leafs entered play Saturday with a record of 51-21-6 for 108 points, 10 behind the Panthers for top spot in the division.