As the NHL season approaches its climax, injuries and player returns are shaping playoff hopes. Jacob Trouba of the Anaheim Ducks made his comeback after a three-game absence due to an upper-body injury, while the Chicago Blackhawks dealt with absentees Connor Murphy and Wyatt Kaiser, sidelined by illness. The Colorado Avalanche are managing a host of injuries; Nathan MacKinnon is being closely monitored as he may miss the final three games due to a minor issue. Martin Necas and Samuel Girard returned to bolster their lineup. The Dallas Stars are optimistic about Tyler Seguin's potential return but are still deliberating on Miro Heiskanen's reintegration following his injury. The Edmonton Oilers have placed John Klingberg on LTIR, complicating their salary cap situation. Meanwhile, Tomas Hertl returned for the Vegas Golden Knights after missing eight games, but Jack Eichel remains out with another upper-body injury.