As the NHL season progresses into its third month, a wave of injuries has captured the headlines, impacting multiple teams and notable players across the league. While some might argue that injuries are an inevitable part of the game, the extent to which they currently affect rosters adds an intriguing dimension to the unfolding 2024-25 season. Here’s a detailed look at the current landscape of health woes afflicting the NHL.
Capitals' Ovechkin Out Week-to-Week
The Washington Capitals have been dealt a significant blow with superstar Alex Ovechkin sidelined due to a lower-leg injury. The incident occurred following a collision with Utah Hockey Club's forward, Jack McBain. This injury has left Ovechkin on a week-to-week status, with his last game appearance on November 18, 2024. The Capitals will certainly feel his absence as they navigate the competitive Metropolitan Division.
Goaltending Challenges for Vancouver and Carolina
Vancouver is holding its breath as goaltender Thatcher Demko battles knee issues that have lingered since the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Demko’s presence is crucial, and the Canucks are hopeful he might make his return by early December, offering some respite to their beleaguered defense.
Elsewhere, the Carolina Hurricanes anticipate the return of their goaltender, Frederik Andersen, by mid-November. Andersen’s return is pivotal for the Hurricanes as they fight to maintain their position in a tough Eastern Conference.
Significant Absences in Boston and Colorado
Boston Bruins are currently coping without Hampus Lindholm, who is on injured reserve due to a lower-body injury. Meanwhile, the Colorado Avalanche are missing Ross Colton, sidelined with a broken foot, and Gabriel Landeskog, who has been out with a knee injury since June 26, 2022. The Avalanche, known for their depth, will need to adjust strategically to maintain their playoff aspirations.
Injury Plague Hits the Blue Jackets and Red Wings
Over in Columbus, both Erik Gudbranson and Boone Jenner are managing upper-body injuries. The latter has been missing from the lineup since March 28, 2024, stripping the Blue Jackets of key veteran presence.
The Detroit Red Wings face their own goaltending crisis with Alex Lyon and Cam Talbot both dealing with injuries. Particularly concerning is Cam Talbot’s lower-body ailment, which, though not severe enough to place him on injured reserve, still limits his participation.
Rehabilitation and Recovery: Player Updates
In Edmonton, fans await the return of Evander Kane, who is not expected back until February 2025 following hip and hernia surgeries. Similarly, the Los Angeles Kings are without Drew Doughty after ankle surgery, along with goaltender Darcy Kuemper, who remains on injured reserve.
Mats Zuccarello of the Minnesota Wild is also out with an upper-body injury but may provide a boost upon his anticipated return in 3-4 weeks. New York Islanders have their share of woes, with Anthony Duclair, Mat Barzal, Adam Pelech, and Mike Reilly all on the recovery list.
Season-Ending and Long-Term Recoveries
The St. Louis Blues’ Torey Krug will not see any action this season following ankle surgery. Meanwhile, in San Jose, the Sharks are facing challenges without Marc-Edouard Vlasic and Logan Couture in their lineup.
In Seattle, the Kraken have to wait until February 2025 for Jordan Eberle’s return post-pelvic surgery. The Toronto Maple Leafs are grappling with injuries to Max Domi, Calle Jarnkrok, and Max Pacioretty, all with lower-body injuries that have impacted their offensive and defensive strategies.
Finally, the Utah Hockey Club is without John Marino, managing an upper-body injury, and Sean Durzi, sidelined with a shoulder injury expected to keep him away for 4-6 months.
The landscape of the 2024-25 NHL season continues to shift as team rosters adapt to these significant injuries. Coaches and GMs are tasked with recalibrating their strategies while hoping for swift recoveries to power through what remains an unpredictable and thrilling season.