Leafs' Johnsson to miss at least 8 weeks with knee injury

Toronto Maple Leafs forward Andreas Johnsson will require surgery on his knee and will be out at least eight weeks, head coach Sheldon Keefe said Friday, according to Sportsnet's Chris Johnston.

Johnsson suffered the injury Thursday against the Dallas Stars after colliding with teammate Kasperi Kapanen.

Johnsson likely won't return for the rest of the regular season. An exact eight-week timeline would have him back in the lineup April 10, but Toronto's last regular-season game is April 4. However, he could be back for the playoffs, should the Leafs qualify.

The 25-year-old has recorded eight goals and 21 points in 43 games this season. He missed 15 contests earlier in the campaign with a leg injury.

Johnsson's name has been involved in trade rumors as the Leafs' search for a defensive upgrade continues, but his latest injury could affect his trade value.

The former seventh-round pick signed a four-year contract carrying a $3.4-million cap hit following a 20-goal rookie season in 2018-19.