In a series of recent developments across various NHL teams, Connor Ingram of the Coyotes was sidelined after being pulled from a game against the Minnesota Wild. His team, alongside others like the Dallas Stars, New York Islanders, and Boston Bruins, finds itself navigating through significant player absences due to injuries as the season progresses. Here's a closer look at the impact of these absences and what fans might expect in the coming days.
Concern for the Coyotes
Connor Ingram was sidelined during a recent game against the Minnesota Wild, and he will not be participating in the upcoming game against the Carolina Hurricanes. Ingram, who managed 28 saves before being replaced, is expected to be away from the ice for at least a week, as confirmed by Coyotes' coach André Tourigny. The Coyotes, already grappling with a disappointing seven-game losing streak, received more bad news as Travis Boyd has been declared out for the remainder of the season. Additionally, Troy Stecher continues his recovery from a lower-body injury, while Liam O’Brien's condition is being monitored daily.
Ups and Downs for the Dallas Stars
The Stars are facing their own set of challenges with Evgenii Dadonov missing the next game against the Edmonton Oilers. Despite this setback, the team has managed to maintain an impressive form, securing victories in seven of their last eight matches. Their goaltender, Jake Oettinger, has been particularly noteworthy, allowing only two goals in the recent face-off against the Nashville Predators. However, questions linger around Nils Lundkvist's availability for Saturday's game.
Islanders Facing Injuries but Holding Strong
The New York Islanders have their concerns, notably with Hudson Fasching's status being uncertain for the highly anticipated outdoor game against the New York Rangers. The team will also have to cope without Robert Bortuzzo, who has been placed on injury reserve. Nonetheless, there's a silver lining as Mathew Barzal is expected to make a return against the Rangers, which might provide the team with a much-needed boost.
Hurricanes and Bruins Weathering the Storm
Meanwhile, the Carolina Hurricanes will have to make do without Antti Raanta for a few weeks, leaving Pyotr Kochetkov and Spencer Martin to take the reins in his absence. Additionally, Frederik Andersen is still on the path to recovery from a blood clotting issue, posing further challenges for the team's lineup. Similarly, the Boston Bruins face a setback with Matthew Poitras missing the upcoming game against the Los Angeles Kings, as they strive to break a concerning three-game losing streak.
Oilers and Kings: Injury Insights
The Edmonton Oilers seem to be in a relatively stable position with no significant injury issues reported ahead of their clash with the Stars. However, the team's performance has been inconsistent, suffering losses in three of their last five outings, compounded by penalty issues. On the other hand, the Los Angeles Kings are dealing with long-term absences, with both Carl Grundstrom and Blake Lizotte on injured reserve. Viktor Arvidsson's return from LTIR, however, brings a glimmer of hope for the team's lineup.
Rangers Riding a Winning Wave
Contrasting fortunes for the New York Rangers see them just one point behind the Bruins, bolstered by a commendable six-game winning streak. However, Blake Wheeler's status is uncertain due to a right-leg injury, but the team's current form suggests resilience and the potential to maintain their winning trajectory.
As the NHL season progresses, teams are inevitably faced with the challenges of injuries impacting their rosters. How well they adapt and leverage their depth will be crucial to their ambitions for the remainder of the season. With some players stepping up to fill the voids left by injured teammates, the narrative of this season continues to be one of unpredictability and sheer determination.