In the fast-paced world of professional hockey, the ebb and flow of player availability due to injuries can significantly impact team performance and game outcomes. This week has seen its fair share of roster shifts across the NHL, with several key players sidelined due to various injuries. Let's delve into these updates and how they might influence upcoming games.
Arizona Coyotes: A String of Injuries and a Losing Streak
The Arizona Coyotes have been hit hard by injuries lately. Goalie Connor Ingram was notably pulled from the game against the Minnesota Wild. Following this, he won't be available against the Carolina Hurricanes, having made 28 saves before being replaced. Coach André Tourigny has indicated Ingram will be out for a week. Adding to the Coyotes' woes, Travis Boyd has been ruled out for the rest of the season. Moreover, Troy Stecher is currently sidelined with a lower body injury, and Liam O’Brien is considered day-to-day. Amid these challenges, the Coyotes find themselves on a seven-game losing streak, an issue they'll need to address promptly to turn their fortunes around.
Dallas Stars: Battling for Consistency
The Dallas Stars, on a contrasting note, have seen a mixture of highs and lows. Evgenii Dadonov will miss the upcoming game against the Edmonton Oilers, a team that has been struggling with penalties and consistency. However, the Stars are carrying momentum, having won seven of their last eight games. Goalie Jake Oettinger showed promise by allowing only two goals against the Nashville Predators. Nils Lundkvist's status for Saturday's game remains questionable, a factor to watch for in the team's lineup.
New York Islanders: Questionable Statuses and Returns
As for the New York Islanders, Hudson Fasching is questionable for the much-anticipated outdoor game against the New York Rangers. The absence of Robert Bortuzzo, who was placed on injury reserve, is another hurdle for the team. On a positive note, Mathew Barzal is expected to make his return against the Rangers, potentially boosting the Islanders' performance in this critical matchup.
Carolina Hurricanes: Goalie Challenges
The Carolina Hurricanes are currently navigating goalie issues. Antti Raanta is out for a couple of weeks, and with Frederik Andersen still recovering from a blood clotting issue, the Hurricanes will rely on Pyotr Kochetkov and Spencer Martin between the pipes for the foreseeable future.
Boston Bruins: Attempting to Break the Slump
The Boston Bruins are in the midst of a three-game losing streak, a rut they're desperate to escape. Matthew Poitras will be absent for the upcoming game against the Los Angeles Kings, another blow for the team as they seek to reclaim their form.
Edmonton Oilers: Seeking Discipline and Victory
The Edmonton Oilers have faced their share of challenges, particularly with penalties impacting their game. Despite having no expected injury issues for their next game against the Stars, the team has lost three of their last five games. Discipline and strategic gameplay will be crucial for the Oilers as they aim to return to their winning ways.
Los Angeles Kings and New York Rangers: Injuries and Win Streaks
The Los Angeles Kings are managing long-term injuries with Carl Grundstrom and Blake Lizotte on injured reserve. The return of Viktor Arvidsson from LTIR brings a glimmer of hope for the Kings as they navigate through these absences. Meanwhile, the New York Rangers are enjoying a successful run, positioned just one point behind the Bruins. Despite Blake Wheeler being day-to-day with a right-leg injury, the Rangers have secured six consecutive victories, demonstrating resilience and depth in their squad.
As teams across the NHL contend with the challenges of injuries and roster changes, the impact on the standings and playoff race remains to be seen. The coming weeks will undoubtedly be critical as teams look to either maintain momentum or reverse their fortunes in the quest for the Stanley Cup.