As the 2024-25 NHL season kicks off, several teams are already grappling with significant injuries to their star players. These early setbacks could play a pivotal role in shaping the dynamics of the season.
Aleksander Barkov's Impactful Absence
In Florida, Panthers' captain Aleksander Barkov finds himself on the sidelines after sustaining a lower-body injury on October 9 against the Ottawa Senators. The incident occurred as Barkov valiantly defended an empty-net goal. Coach Paul Maurice remains hopeful, stating, "(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." His absence will be keenly felt, with the team relying on their depth to mitigate his temporary loss, aiming for his return as the team heads to Finland.
San Jose and Vancouver Face Struggles
The San Jose Sharks are also feeling the pinch with young talent Macklin Celebrini on the injured reserve list. Celebrini was injured during a training camp session, and his absence is expected for at least two more games. Meanwhile, Vancouver Canucks' goaltender Thatcher Demko is working through a knee injury from the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs—an injury sustained in Game 1 against the Nashville Predators. His recovery is predicted to span three-to-four weeks, posing a significant challenge for the Canucks as they navigate the early season without their star netminder.
Colorado Avalanche's Extensive Injury List
The Colorado Avalanche continues to tackle its own injury woes. Gabriel Landeskog, a key figure in their 2022 Stanley Cup triumph, remains out of action following an arthroscopic knee surgery and a subsequent cartilage transplant surgery. This extends his absence through the entire 2023-24 season. Additionally, Artturi Lehkonen is on injured reserve following shoulder surgery, further straining the Avalanche's lineup.
Key Goaltenders and Players on the Mend
Goaltender John Gibson of the Anaheim Ducks is on the road to recovery post-appendectomy surgery, with expectations set for an early November return. Similarly, Luke Hughes of the New Jersey Devils is grappling with a shoulder injury, with projections indicating a potential early November comeback. Brett Pesce of the Devils too is on injury watch; he is recovering from a fractured fibula with a promising return slated for late October 2024.
The Pittsburgh Penguins are managing without Bryan Rust, who is overcoming a lower-body injury. As the St. Louis Blues face the absence of veteran defenseman Torey Krug, out for the entirety of the 2025-26 season following ankle surgery, they must adapt to long-term challenges in his absence.
Anticipated Returns and Long Hauls
In Toronto, the Maple Leafs await the return of Calle Jarnkrok from a lower-body injury, expected by late October 2024. Meanwhile, the Utah Hockey Club is anticipating Nick Bjugstad's early November return from an upper-body injury, with John Marino expected to rejoin the lineup by mid-October.
Significantly, Dakota Joshua of the Vancouver Canucks is inspiring many as he eyes a late October return following treatment for testicular cancer. The resilience displayed in his journey highlights the human spirit's determination in sports.
Forwards, Defensemen Battling Time
The Edmonton Oilers face an extended period without forward Evander Kane, following hip and hernia surgeries, marking his return for February 2025. In Los Angeles, the Kings are in a wait-and-see situation with Drew Doughty's ongoing ankle surgery rehabilitation, leaving fans and the team uncertain about his return timeline.
The Vegas Golden Knights are managing their roster amidst injury concerns, with William Karlsson aiming for an October 2024 return from an undisclosed injury while maintaining team momentum.
As the NHL season unfolds, each team's ability to navigate these injury challenges will be critical. The resilience and adaptability of players and coaching staff alike will be tested, setting the stage for a potentially unpredictable and compelling season.