The 2024-25 NHL season has commenced, but not without a string of significant injuries impacting several key players across the league. Teams are adjusting to the setbacks while aiming to maintain their competitive edge during these early stages.
Panthers' Star Barkov Sidelined
A significant blow hit the Florida Panthers when their captain, Aleksander Barkov, sustained a lower-body injury on October 9 in a game against the Ottawa Senators. The injury occurred as Barkov was valiantly attempting to defend an empty-net goal, a testament to his relentless drive and dedication to the team. Panthers' head coach Paul Maurice noted, “(Paul Maurice) estimated that Barkov would be sidelined two to three weeks, with a chance to return to the ice by the team's early November NHL Global Series match in Finland if not sooner.” The Panthers will be keen to have their star player back, especially for the upcoming international showcase.
Injury Woes for the Sharks and Canucks
The San Jose Sharks have also felt the sting of injury troubles. Promising talent Macklin Celebrini, who was injured during training camp, finds himself on the injured reserve list. With Celebrini expected to miss at least the next two games, the Sharks must navigate the early season turbulence without his contributions on the ice.
Meanwhile, the Vancouver Canucks face their challenge with Thatcher Demko sidelined due to a knee injury. The injury, sustained during the high-stakes atmosphere of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs in Game 1 against the Nashville Predators, is expected to keep Demko out for approximately three to four weeks. His absence leaves a significant gap in the Canucks' goaltending strength, and his return is eagerly anticipated by both the team and fans alike.
Avalanche Managing Long-Term Absences
The Colorado Avalanche continue to navigate a challenging path with the ongoing absence of Gabriel Landeskog. Having missed the entire 2022-23 season after arthroscopic knee surgery, Landeskog is set to miss yet another campaign following a cartilage transplant surgery. This long-term setback has forced the Avalanche to adjust their strategies, prioritizing depth and resilience. Additionally, Artturi Lehkonen remains on injured reserve after undergoing shoulder surgery, further testing the Avalanche's resources and adaptability.
Mixed Fortunes Around the League
Other players are also battling with injuries. John Gibson of the Anaheim Ducks is on the road to recovery following appendectomy surgery and is projected to make his return in early November. Yegor Sharangovich from the Calgary Flames grapples with a lower-body injury, while Evander Kane of the Edmonton Oilers faces a prolonged recovery from hip and hernia surgeries, with expectations of a February 2025 return.
For the Los Angeles Kings, Drew Doughty rehabs from ankle surgery, though his return remains uncertain. In New Jersey, the Devils are dealing with dual issues; Luke Hughes is nursing a shoulder injury with a hopeful early November return, and Brett Pesce is recuperating from a fractured fibula, slated for a comeback later in October 2024.
The St. Louis Blues have announced Torey Krug will miss the entire 2025-26 season due to ankle surgery, marking a significant loss for the team. Conversely, the Toronto Maple Leafs predict the return of Calle Jarnkrok by late October 2024 as he overcomes a lower-body injury.
Utah Hockey Club's and Vegas Golden Knights' Injuries
Nick Bjugstad of the Utah Hockey Club is contending with an upper-body injury, with hopes of returning by early November 2024, while teammate John Marino is anticipated to be back by mid-October. Dakota Joshua of the Vancouver Canucks is in recovery from a serious health challenge, testicular cancer, targeting a return by late October.
The Vegas Golden Knights face their conundrum with William Karlsson tackling an undisclosed injury, albeit with optimism surrounding an October 2024 return.
As the NHL season unfolds, these injuries present a significant test to each team's depth and ability to cope with adverse situations. The return of key players will undoubtedly bolster their respective teams' prospects as they vie for success in the highly competitive league.