In a pivotal point of the NHL season where every game becomes critical, injuries have become a significant concern for several teams. The Arizona Coyotes, Dallas Stars, New York Islanders, Carolina Hurricanes, Boston Bruins, Edmonton Oilers, Los Angeles Kings, and New York Rangers are all navigating through various challenges posed by injuries to key players.
Arizona Coyotes Face Multiple Challenges
In a recent development, goaltender Connor Ingram was pulled from the game against the Minnesota Wild due to an unspecified issue and has been ruled out for the upcoming match against the Carolina Hurricanes. Ingram, who made 28 saves before being substituted, will not be available for play for a week, according to head coach André Tourigny.
The Coyotes are also dealing with other injuries. Forward Travis Boyd is sidelined for the remainder of the season, while defenseman Troy Stecher is out with a lower-body injury. Additionally, Liam O’Brien is listed as day-to-day. Amidst these challenges, Arizona is currently on a seven-game losing streak, further complicating their season’s prospects.
Dallas Stars Riding High Despite Setback
While the Stars have been enjoying a successful run, winning seven of their last eight games, they will face the Edmonton Oilers without forward Evgenii Dadonov. Goaltender Jake Oettinger, after allowing two goals against the Nashville Predators, looks to maintain his form. Meanwhile, defenseman Nils Lundkvist's status for Saturday's game remains uncertain.
New York Islanders Prepare for Outdoor Game
As the Islanders gear up for the much-anticipated outdoor game against the New York Rangers, forward Hudson Fasching's participation is questionable. The team has placed defenseman Robert Bortuzzo on injury reserve. However, there's positive news as star center Mathew Barzal is expected to be back in the lineup for the outdoor clash.
Carolina Hurricanes Juggle Goalies Amidst Injuries
The Hurricanes have been hit hard with goaltender injuries. Antti Raanta is out for a couple of weeks, thrusting Pyotr Kochetkov and Spencer Martin into the spotlight. The situation is made more complicated by Frederik Andersen's ongoing recovery from a blood clotting issue, leaving the team to rely on their depth in the net.
Boston Bruins Seek to End Losing Streak
The Bruins, currently on a three-game losing streak, will be without Matthew Poitras for their upcoming game against the Los Angeles Kings. Boston is eager to turn their fortunes around and reclaim their position as one of the league's top teams.
Edmonton Oilers Look to Overcome Penalties
The Oilers head into their next game against the Stars with no significant injury concerns. However, penalties have been a recurring issue for the team, contributing to three losses in their last five games. Edmonton aims to address this aspect of their game to improve their playoff positioning.
Los Angeles Kings Activate Viktor Arvidsson
Despite long-term injuries to Carl Grundstrom and Blake Lizotte, the Kings have received a boost with the return of forward Viktor Arvidsson from long-term injured reserve. Arvidsson's return adds depth and scoring prowess to the Kings' lineup as they aim to solidify their playoff spot.
New York Rangers Chase Playoff Spot
The Rangers, just one point behind the Bruins, are on a six-game winning streak. However, they face uncertainty with forward Blake Wheeler, who is listed as day-to-day with a right-leg injury. The Rangers are hopeful Wheeler can return soon to help maintain their winning momentum.
As the regular season winds down, the race for the playoffs intensifies. Teams are closely monitoring their injured players while relying on depth and resilience to overcome challenges. With every game carrying significant implications, health and timely recoveries will play crucial roles in determining postseason destinies.