NHL Update: Teams Dealing with Injuries and Form Challenges
In a series of updates from the NHL, several teams are grappling with injuries and form as they navigate through the latter stages of the season. From goalies being sidelined to players making their return, here's what's happening across the league.
Ingram Sidelined for the Coyotes
The Coyotes' goaltender, Connor Ingram, faced a setback as he was pulled from a game against the Minnesota Wild and is ruled out for the upcoming match against the Carolina Hurricanes. Ingram, who managed to make 28 saves before being substituted, is expected to miss a week of action, as confirmed by Coyotes coach André Tourigny. This comes as a part of a series of challenges for the Coyotes, who are currently on a seven-game losing streak. Other players on the injury list include Travis Boyd, who is out for the season, and Troy Stecher who continues to recover from a lower body injury. Additionally, Liam O’Brien's condition is being closely monitored on a day-to-day basis.
Dallas Stars Riding High, Despite Setbacks
The Stars, on the other hand, have found themselves on a positive trajectory, winning seven of their last eight games. However, they will be without Evgenii Dadonov for their next game against the Edmonton Oilers. Goalie Jake Oettinger turned in a strong performance by only allowing two goals against the Nashville Predators, showcasing the depth and resilience within the squad. Nils Lundkvist's availability for Saturday's game remains uncertain, leaving the Stars with some decisions to make ahead of their next outing.
Islanders and Hurricanes Face Injury Woes
The New York Islanders have their own concerns, with Hudson Fasching's participation in the outdoor game against the New York Rangers up in the air. Meanwhile, Robert Bortuzzo's placement on injury reserve poses another challenge for the team. However, there's some good news as Mathew Barzal is expected to feature against the Rangers, providing a much-needed boost to the lineup.
The Carolina Hurricanes are dealing with significant absences between the posts. Antti Raanta is out for a couple of weeks, putting the spotlight on Pyotr Kochetkov and Spencer Martin to step up. Frederik Andersen's continued absence due to a blood clotting issue only compounds the Hurricanes' goaltending dilemma.
Bruins Look to Break Losing Streak
The Boston Bruins, amid a three-game losing streak, will miss Matthew Poitras for their bout against the Los Angeles Kings. The team is undoubtedly hoping to reverse their fortunes and regain some form as they advance further into the season.
Mixed Fortunes for Oilers and Kings
The Edmonton Oilers seem to be free from injury troubles as they prepare to face the Stars, yet the team has faced some struggles, losing three of their last five games. Discipline and penalties have been highlighted as areas of concern that the Oilers need to address.
The Los Angeles Kings are managing long-term injuries to Carl Grundstrom and Blake Lizotte, but they've received a boost with Viktor Arvidsson making his way back from LTIR. This could provide some much-needed depth as they continue their campaign.
Rangers Eyeing the Top Spot
As they sit just one point behind the Bruins, the New York Rangers are pushing for the top. However, they will have to navigate their upcoming games without Blake Wheeler, who is day-to-day with a right-leg injury. Nonetheless, the Rangers are on a six-game winning streak, showcasing their ability to overcome adversity and mount a significant challenge for the leadership position in their division.
As the NHL season progresses, each team's depth and resilience are being tested. From key players being sidelined to others stepping up in crucial moments, the stage is set for an intriguing end to the season. All eyes will be on how these teams navigate through their respective challenges and whether they can emerge stronger on the other side.
