In a series of updates from the NHL, several players are dealing with injuries and illnesses that could impact their teams. Anaheim Ducks goaltender John Gibson was unable to play due to illness, while Buffalo Sabres forward Nicolas Aube-Kubel is questionable for today's game for the same reason. On a more positive note, Sabres defenseman Mattias Samuelsson is expected to be in the lineup.
Further updates include Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere, who missed a game due to an upper-body injury, and Dallas Stars coach Pete DeBoer, who expressed concern over Mason Marchment's injury, stating it is “not good” and more week-to-week. Minnesota Wild's Joel Eriksson Ek is on the verge of returning, while Kirill Kaprizov's situation remains uncertain as he is day-to-day.
In New York, Islanders forward Anthony Duclair and defenseman Ryan Pulock did not participate in an optional skate, while Rangers defenseman K’Andre Miller made a comeback after a six-game absence. The New Jersey Devils welcomed Curtis Lazar back after a knee issue, and the San Jose Sharks faced challenges as Carl Grundstrum left early in a game after a hit.
Seattle Kraken's Joey Daccord and Andre Burakovsky missed a recent game due to various ailments, with hopes of returning soon. Meanwhile, Tampa Bay Lightning's Michael Eyssimont is day-to-day, and Toronto Maple Leafs coach Craig Berube provided an update on Auston Matthews, indicating he is making progress but without a specific return date. Lastly, Vancouver Canucks' Elias Pettersson and Quinn Hughes missed a game, but their injuries are not believed to be serious, while Washington Capitals' Alex Ovechkin returned to action, although Lars Eller remains sidelined due to illness.
