The 2024-25 NHL season has hit its stride, but as the battle on the ice intensifies, so too does the cascade of injuries affecting some of the league's premier players. With key figures sidelined, teams across the league are grappling with how to adjust their strategies and maintain their competitive edge.
Ovechkin's Pursuit Paused
All eyes have been on Alex Ovechkin as he relentlessly chases Wayne Gretzky's all-time goals record. However, Ovechkin's quest has encountered an unexpected intermission. The Washington Capitals' star forward is currently sidelined with a lower-leg injury, a setback that emerged following a collision with Utah's Jack McBain. While the injury is deemed week-to-week, Ovechkin has not been placed on injured reserve, suggesting the Capitals are hopeful for his swift return.
Buffalo's Troubles
In Buffalo, the Sabres are grappling with a different kind of challenge—a massive losing streak. Compounding their woes is the absence of Rasmus Dahlin, who has been out for seven games with persistent back spasms. As Dahlin remains an essential piece of the Sabres' puzzle, there's cautious optimism that he might return against the Toronto Maple Leafs on Friday, December 20. His presence would be a significant boost for a team in desperate need of a turnaround.
League-Wide Injury Report
The Anaheim Ducks are without Trevor Zegras, who has been sidelined since early December due to a lower-body injury. His absence leaves a void in the Ducks’ offensive setup, as they navigate a challenging schedule without one of their playmakers.
In Boston, the Bruins are missing Hampus Lindholm, also due to a lower-body injury that has kept him away since mid-November. Lindholm’s absence has tested the Bruins’ defensive depth as they look to maintain their standing in the league.
Gabriel Landeskog’s knee issues have kept him off the ice for Colorado since mid-2022. As the Avalanche manage without their captain, the timeline for his return remains uncertain, leaving fans and the team alike hopeful for his eventual comeback.
Carolina is contending with the loss of Frederik Andersen, who is dealing with a lower-body injury but, like Ovechkin, has not been placed on injured reserve. The Hurricanes will need to strategize carefully to cover the gap left by their goaltender.
Meanwhile, the New York Islanders find themselves juggling personnel concerns. Anthony Duclair is managing a lower-body injury, while Mike Reilly plays through upper-body issues, demonstrating resilience amidst the squad’s injury challenges.
In San Jose, the Sharks are coping with the loss of Marc-Edouard Vlasic and Logan Couture, both on injured reserve due to upper-body and groin injuries, respectively. These absences are a significant blow to a team looking to climb the standings.
Toronto's Depth Tested
Toronto’s depth has been put to the test with the absence of Anthony Stolarz following knee surgery and Calle Jarnkrok, who has been out since late September. As the Maple Leafs navigate these injuries, they are called upon to rely on their roster's depth to maintain their competitive form.
The NHL's current landscape is a testament to the sport's physical toll, with teams and players alike contending with the demands of a grueling season. As the league progresses, the resilience of these injured stars and the strategic acumen of coaching staff will be crucial in determining the fortunes of each team. Fans across the globe eagerly await the return of their favorite players, whose absence is felt deeply on and off the ice.