The NHL season is underway, and teams are already grappling with significant injuries that could impact their performance in the 2024-25 campaign. With just two months into the season, several key players are sidelined, and clubs must adapt quickly to navigate this challenging period.
Capitals Adjust Without Ovechkin
Washington Capitals' star forward Alex Ovechkin is out of action following a lower-leg injury. The injury occurred after a collision with Utah's Jack McBain and has left Ovechkin on a week-to-week recovery schedule. Ovechkin last graced the ice on November 18, 2024, and his absence will certainly be felt given his pivotal role in Washington's offense.
Goalie Woes Across the League
Goaltending injuries have plagued several teams, with Thatcher Demko of the Vancouver Canucks at the forefront. Demko has been dealing with knee issues that trace back to last year's Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Canucks are hopeful for his return in early December, but until then, they'll need to rely on their backup options.
The Carolina Hurricanes are also anticipating the mid-November return of their goaltender, Frederik Andersen. Meanwhile, the Detroit Red Wings are managing injuries to both Alex Lyon and Cam Talbot, who is not officially on injured reserve but is working through a lower-body ailment.
Bruins, Avalanche, and Blue Jackets Battle Injuries
Boston's blue line has taken a hit with Hampus Lindholm on injured reserve due to a lower-body injury, creating a significant gap in the Bruins' defense. Simultaneously, the Colorado Avalanche are managing multiple injuries, with Ross Colton's broken foot and Gabriel Landeskog's ongoing recovery from a knee injury that has sidelined him since June 2022.
In Columbus, the Blue Jackets are contending with upper-body injuries to defenseman Erik Gudbranson and captain Boone Jenner, who has not played since March 28, 2024. This compounds the challenges for a team eager to make strides in the competitive Metropolitan Division.
Long Road to Recovery for Some
Edmonton Oilers' forward Evander Kane underwent hip and hernia surgeries and is not expected to return until February 2025. Similarly, the Seattle Kraken's Jordan Eberle is on track for a February comeback following pelvic surgery. Such lengthy recovery timelines can significantly influence team dynamics and strategies as the season progresses.
St. Louis Blues are already planning for the long term with defenseman Torey Krug, who will not be returning this season after undergoing ankle surgery. This presents a strategic challenge for the Blues, who will need to reconfigure their defensive setup.
Islander Injuries Add Up
For the New York Islanders, injuries are mounting, with Anthony Duclair, Mat Barzal, Adam Pelech, and Mike Reilly all on the injured list. Their absence presents a formidable test to the Islanders' depth and resilience as they face their Eastern Conference rivals.
A Look at Other Notable Injuries
The Los Angeles Kings are missing Drew Doughty due to ankle surgery, while goaltender Darcy Kuemper is sidelined with an undisclosed injury. The Kings must find ways to shore up their defense and maintain their competitive edge without these key contributors.
Minnesota Wild's Mats Zuccarello is sidelined with an upper-body injury but may return in 3-4 weeks. Meanwhile, the Toronto Maple Leafs are managing lower-body injuries to Max Domi, Calle Jarnkrok, and Max Pacioretty, testing their forward depth.
Lastly, the Utah Hockey Club is missing John Marino (upper-body injury) and Sean Durzi, who is dealing with a shoulder injury and is expected to be out for 4-6 months. The Utah roster is already feeling the strain as they navigate the early months of the season.
As teams contend with these injuries, depth and resilience will be tested. The ability to adapt quickly will be crucial for clubs to maintain momentum and aim for postseason success in what promises to be an unpredictable season.