The NHL's 2024-25 season is only a few weeks fresh, yet it already faces a challenging wave of injuries to key players across several teams. The early-season battles have pushed coaches and medical staff into overdrive, managing the recovery of their star athletes while hoping to maintain competitiveness.
The Capitals' Uncertain Days with Ovechkin
Amongst the prominent names sidelined is Washington Capitals' cornerstone, Alex Ovechkin. The prolific winger suffered a lower-leg injury following a collision with Utah's Jack McBain. While the Capitals have announced Ovechkin's status as day-to-day, the uncertainty leaves Washington in a precarious position as they navigate the early part of their schedule without one of their most significant contributors. Ovechkin's absence reverberates through the team, posing both a strategic challenge and an opportunity for others to step up.
Maple Leafs Hit Hard
In Toronto, the Maple Leafs are feeling the pinch with two key players on the mend. Auston Matthews, the team's star center, has been placed on injured reserve with an upper-body injury, effective retroactively from November 3. The team and fans alike are eyeing a mid-November return for him. In addition, Max Pacioretty is dealing with a lower-body injury, further complicating the Leafs’ lineup decisions as they attempt to maintain their usual high-octane offense.
Carolina's Waiting Game
The Carolina Hurricanes face their own set of challenges, as both Seth Jarvis and Frederik Andersen are out with injuries. Jarvis, sidelined due to an upper-body injury from a recent clash with the Colorado Avalanche, might make a return to the lineup as soon as next week, according to Coach Rod Brind'Amour. Meanwhile, Andersen is also recuperating from a lower-body injury, with a projected return in mid-November.
Islanders’ Extensive Injury List
The New York Islanders are navigating a particularly challenging early season with multiple key players sidelined. Mat Barzal is expected to miss another four to six weeks, nursing an undisclosed upper-body injury. Adam Pelech shares a similar recovery timeline, leaving a noticeable gap in their defensive lineup. Additionally, Anthony Duclair is not likely to return until December due to a lower-body injury. Defensemen Mike Reilly and Alex Romanov remain under close watch, listed as day-to-day.
Canucks, Ducks, and Blues Managing Setbacks
Over in Vancouver, goaltender Thatcher Demko’s recovery from a knee injury remains a focal point. Sustained during Game 1 of their opening-round series against the Nashville Predators, Demko is expected to be out for three to four weeks, which places additional pressure on the Canucks’ defensive units.
Meanwhile, the Anaheim Ducks, Boston Bruins, and Buffalo Sabres each hope for the return of key players by late November. Mason McTavish, Hampus Lindholm, and Tage Thompson's anticipated recoveries could significantly impact their respective teams' fortunes.
The St. Louis Blues have their concerns as well, with both Robert Thomas and Torey Krug facing extended absences, requiring adjustments to their tactical approach as the season progresses.
Various Injuries Across the League
The Columbus Blue Jackets are dealing with a trio of injuries, as Erik Gudbranson, Boone Jenner, and Kent Johnson all recover from upper-body ailments. Their absences test Columbus’ depth but offer the opportunity for other talents to emerge.
Evander Kane's recovery timeline is notably extended, following hip and hernia surgeries that have sidelined the Edmonton Oilers' forward until February 2025. This long-term absence will compel the Oilers to seek scoring depth and adaptability in their lineup over the coming months.
Back in Los Angeles, Drew Doughty recuperates from ankle surgery, while Darcy Kuemper remains out with an injury sustained in mid-November, providing ample challenges for teams grappling with early-season adversity.
As teams assess their rosters and await the return of their top performers, the 2024-25 NHL season continues to surprise with its early drama. Coaches will hope their players return to full strength soon, bolstering their squads and enabling a push for postseason glory.