As the 2024-25 NHL season kicks off, several teams are already grappling with the impact of key injuries that could shape their early campaigns. The absence of vital players is poised to test team depth and resilience as the weeks progress.
Florida Panthers Hit by Barkov Setback
The Florida Panthers face a challenging start to the season following an injury to their captain, Aleksander Barkov. On October 9, during an encounter with the Ottawa Senators, Barkov suffered a lower-body injury while defending against an empty-net goal. Paul Maurice, head coach of the Panthers, revealed, “(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.” This prognosis gives the Panthers a glimmer of hope, aiming to have Barkov back just in time for their appearance on the international stage.
Challenges Abound for San Jose Sharks and Vancouver Canucks
Macklin Celebrini's situation adds to the San Jose Sharks’ woes, as the promising player remains on the injured reserve list due to an ailment sustained during training camp. Though his absence is currently projected for two more games, the Sharks will need to reassess frequently as they plot their path ahead.
Over in Vancouver, the Canucks find themselves without their star goaltender, Thatcher Demko, due to a knee injury from the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Sustaining the injury during Game 1 against the Nashville Predators, Demko’s absence is expected to last three to four weeks. The Canucks must now navigate a crucial stretch without the stability their premier netminder offers.
Colorado Avalanche: Long Road to Recovery
The Colorado Avalanche continue to suffer from a debilitating injury toll. Key to their lineup, Gabriel Landeskog remains on the sidelines after undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery and missing the entire 2022-23 season. Following a cartilage transplant surgery, Landeskog is set to miss this season as well, leaving a significant void in the Avalanche forward lines.
Moreover, the Avalanche also contend with the absence of Artturi Lehkonen, who is recovering from shoulder surgery. The team will need to tap into its reserves and bench strength to compensate for these offensive setbacks.
Injury Concerns Across the League
John Gibson of the Anaheim Ducks is on the mend following an appendectomy. His expected return in early November leaves the Ducks without their regular goaltender for the initial phase of the season. Similarly, Yegor Sharangovich’s presence on the injured reserve due to a lower-body injury leaves the Calgary Flames to adjust their roster accordingly.
Evander Kane's absence looms large over the Edmonton Oilers. With surgeries on both his hip and hernia, Kane is projected to be out until February 2025, posing strategic puzzles for the Oilers in their forward lines.
Drew Doughty’s injury adds to the Los Angeles Kings' defensive concerns, as he rehabilitates following ankle surgery. The lack of a specific timeframe for his return further complicates the Kings’ defensive strategy.
New Jersey Devils Face Double Trouble
The New Jersey Devils are wary of the injuries afflicting two crucial players. Luke Hughes, struggling with a shoulder injury, is anticipated to return by early November, aiming to bolster the defensive corps. Brett Pesce, on the other hand, with a fractured fibula, has an optimistic October return on the cards, offering hope for improved defensive stability.
Additional Setbacks and Projected Returns
The Pittsburgh Penguins are closely monitoring Bryan Rust as he works through a lower-body injury. In St. Louis, Blues’ fans will have to endure the absence of Torey Krug throughout the entire 2025-26 season following ankle surgery.
Toronto Maple Leafs’ Calle Jarnkrok is slated for a late October return from his lower-body injury, potentially reinforcing the team’s forward ranks. Similarly, Utah Hockey Club's Nick Bjugstad and John Marino are charting their paths back to action. Bjugstad is eyeing an early November return due to an upper-body injury while teammate John Marino is expected back by mid-October.
The personal battle of Dakota Joshua has been an inspiration for many in the hockey community. Recovering from testicular cancer, Joshua is keen on returning late October, aiming to rejoin the Vancouver Canucks with renewed vigor.
Finally, the Vegas Golden Knights remain optimistic about William Karlsson’s return in October, despite the veil of secrecy surrounding the specifics of his injury. His presence will undoubtedly be a pivotal factor in the Golden Knights' campaign aspirations.
Overall, as these sidelined players strive to regain match fitness and contribute once more to their teams, the NHL season unfolds with numerous storylines hinging on their timely recoveries. For the affected teams, striking the right balance between cautious patience and competitive urgency is vital as they navigate these early challenges.