As the NHL embarks on its 2024-25 season, a wave of high-profile injuries has altered the landscape, impacting teams' rosters and strategies from the outset. Top players—integral to their squads' successes—find themselves sidelined, leaving teams scrambling to fill the voids.
Connor McDavid: An Unwarranted Pause
In a twist no fan wanted to see, Connor McDavid, the Edmonton Oilers' linchpin, sustained an ankle injury during a game against the Columbus Blue Jackets on October 28. McDavid, known for his blistering pace and playmaking prowess, is expected to miss two to three weeks. The injury means McDavid could be absent for around half a dozen games—a critical period for any team vying for early season momentum. His absence jolts the Oilers, forcing them to recalibrate their approach in the face of this untimely setback.
Macklin Celebrini's Unfortunate Setback
Just one game into his NHL journey, Macklin Celebrini of the San Jose Sharks finds himself on injured reserve due to a lower-body injury. An exciting prospect for the Sharks, Celebrini’s early exit from the lineup is a disappointment to those eager to see his impact on the ice. However, the team remains hopeful for his return come November, a fresh start still ripe with potential.
Goaltenders Off the Ice
The injury bug has not spared goaltenders, with Vancouver Canucks' Thatcher Demko nursing a knee injury that will see him out for three to four weeks. A significant loss for Vancouver, Demko’s presence between the pipes represents both skill and stability. In his absence, the Canucks will seek alternative ways to maintain their defensive solidity.
Adding to the woes in the crease, John Gibson of the Anaheim Ducks is recuperating from appendectomy surgery. The Ducks will miss Gibson's experience and reflexive agility as they navigate the first leg of the season without him.
Ongoing Struggles for Veterans
Gabriel Landeskog, the captain of the Colorado Avalanche, continues his road to recovery, having not played since the 2022 postseason. The dual knee surgeries he endured emphasize the daunting physical toll professional hockey exacts even on its steadiest players. His leadership is much missed on the ice, but his off-ice support and guidance remain invaluable.
Meanwhile, Evander Kane of the Edmonton Oilers and Zach Benson of the Buffalo Sabres also find themselves on the mend. Kane, recovering from hip and hernia surgeries, is a powerhouse player whose return is eagerly anticipated. Benson, contending with a lower-body injury, adds to the Sabres’ concerns as they adjust their play without his contributions.
Team Challenges: Colorado and St. Louis
The Avalanche face challenges beyond Landeskog's absence, with Artturi Lehkonen recovering from shoulder surgery. His role as a forward is crucial, and the team will need to compensate for fewer offensive options in the lineup.
The St. Louis Blues have been doubly hit, with Torey Krug and Robert Thomas both sidelined by ankle injuries. Krug underwent surgery and Thomas is dealing with a fractured ankle, compounding the Blues' defensive woes and sparking significant lineup reshuffling.
A Diverse Array of Injuries
Across the league, injuries have come in all forms. Erik Gudbranson of the Columbus Blue Jackets is out with an upper-body injury, affecting the team’s defensive lineup. Anthony Duclair of the New York Islanders is battling a lower-body injury, while Vince Dunn of the Seattle Kraken grapples with a mid-body injury, highlighting the unpredictability and varied nature of these setbacks.
The Toronto Maple Leafs face challenges with Calle Jarnkrok managing a lower-body issue, affecting their forward dynamics. For the Utah Hockey Club, John Marino's upper-body injury leaves a significant gap in their defensive assembly.
Dakota Joshua of the Vancouver Canucks presents a unique case, as he recovers from testicular cancer. His courageous battle and subsequent return to play symbolize more than just a roster addition, but an inspiring comeback to the professional stage.
As the NHL season progresses, teams will no doubt be eager to see these key players back in top form. Until their returns, it’s a testament to the depth and resilience of NHL squads as they strive to adapt and compete despite these early handicaps.