The 2024-25 NHL season has already opened with its fair share of challenges, particularly as injuries strike major players and complicate team strategies across the league. As teams navigate these setbacks, they are compelled to adjust their rosters and game plans, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the season.
Maple Leafs Face Challenges Without Auston Matthews
The Toronto Maple Leafs have been dealt a significant blow with Auston Matthews sidelined due to an upper-body injury. The star forward, who landed on the injured reserve list retroactively to November 3, missed a crucial game against the Montreal Canadiens. However, fans hold onto hope, anticipating Matthews' return against the Ottawa Senators on Tuesday. In addition, Calle Jarnkrok, who had been anticipated to make his comeback from a lower-body injury in late October, presents another potential return option for the Leafs.
Islanders and Canucks Manage Critical Absences
The New York Islanders are grappling with a series of injuries that have impacted their lineup significantly. Mathew Barzal and Adam Pelech are slated for a four-to-six-week recovery period due to upper-body injuries. While their absence is expected to stretch through a critical part of the season, other defensemen like Mike Reilly and Alex Romanov are experiencing day-to-day issues that are fortunately considered minor. Additionally, Anthony Duclair’s lower-body injury will see him out until December, further testing the Islanders' depth.
In Vancouver, the Canucks are feeling the pinch as well. Thatcher Demko’s persistent knee injury, which has lingered since the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs, remains a concern. However, hopes are high for an early November return. Another heartening story comes from Dakota Joshua, who is recovering from testicular cancer and is expected to make an emotional return to the ice imminently.
Widespread Injury Challenges Across the League
The injury bug has bitten several other franchises hard. The Carolina Hurricanes are currently missing Frederik Andersen due to a lower-body injury, leaving him out until mid-November. Similarly, the Colorado Avalanche are adjusting without Gabriel Landeskog, who remains on injured reserve with a knee issue. Ross Colton’s broken foot will see him off the ice for six to eight weeks, while Miles Wood's upper-body injury signals a shorter, albeit impactful, absence of seven to ten days.
Columbus Blue Jackets’ players Erik Gudbranson and Boone Jenner are also out with uncertain return dates, plagued by upper-body injuries. This has prompted managers and coaches alike to adapt strategies on the fly, as player availability becomes more unpredictable. Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers await the return of Evander Kane, whose recovery from hip and hernia surgeries is on target for February 2025.
Long-Term Absences and Rehabs
Some teams are preparing for long-term absences, which may redefine their season objectives. Torey Krug of the St. Louis Blues is facing a lengthy recovery from ankle surgery, unlikely to return until the 2025-26 season. His teammate, Robert Thomas, is out indefinitely with a fractured ankle, further complicating the Blues' defensive plans.
The Utah Hockey Club is also dealing with setbacks, as John Marino’s upper-body injury leaves his return date uncertain. Furthermore, Sean Durzi’s severe shoulder injury necessitates a four-to-six-month recovery period, demanding significant resilience and adaptation from the team.
In the absence of these players, each team must reassess their strategies, scout talent within and outside their current rosters, and keep morale high among the remaining lineup. As the season unfolds, the ability to manage these injuries while maintaining competitive edge remains a key factor that will distinguish resilient teams from the rest.