NHL Lineup and Injury Report: Key Players Return, Others Out
The NHL is buzzing with action as teams gear up for crucial matches. Here's a breakdown of the latest lineup and injury news, with a focus on key players returning to the ice and others sidelined.
Carolina Hurricanes: Slavin Returns, Nystrom Reassigned
Jaccob Slavin, a cornerstone of the Hurricanes' defense, is set to return to the lineup against the Seattle Kraken on Saturday. He's been out with an upper-body injury since December 19, missing 10 games and playing just five this season. Slavin, a USA Olympic team member, skated alongside Jalen Chatfield at the morning skate. Meanwhile, Joel Nystrom was reassigned to the Chicago of the American Hockey League on Friday.
Toronto Maple Leafs: Nylander Back, Stolarz Progressing
William Nylander, a key forward for the Maple Leafs, is set to return against the Vancouver Canucks on Saturday. He missed six games after a lower-body injury during a win against the Ottawa Senators. Nylander leads the team with 41 points. Goalie Anthony Stolarz, out since November 11, is making progress and could join the team on their upcoming road trip.
Florida Panthers: Marchand on the Ice, Panthers' Offense Strong
Brad Marchand, a forward for the Panthers, is day-to-day and could return against the Senators. He leads the team with 46 points. The Panthers' offense is in top form, with Marchand and his teammates firing on all cylinders.
San Jose Sharks: Misa Returns, Klingberg Out
Michael Misa, the No. 2 pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, is back at practice after representing Canada at the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship. He's set to return to the lineup against the Dallas Stars. John Klingberg, however, is out with a lower-body injury and hasn't played since December 31.
Philadelphia Flyers: Konecny, Brink Questionable, Drysdale Out
Travis Konecny and Bobby Brink are questionable for the Flyers' game against the Tampa Bay Lightning. Konecny, who missed the morning skate, has an upper-body injury. Jamie Drysdale, a defenseman, was placed on injured reserve after a hit by Ross Johnston. Adam Ginning was recalled from Lehigh Valley of the AHL.
New York Rangers: Laba Returns, Dowling Reassigned
Noah Laba, a rookie forward, is set to return against the Boston Bruins after missing three games with an upper-body injury. He practiced as the third-line center. Justin Dowling was reassigned to Hartford of the AHL before the game.
Boston Bruins: Lindholm Day-to-Day, Bruins' Defense Strong
Hampus Lindholm, a defenseman, is day-to-day and could return before the Bruins host the Penguins. He's been out since January 3 but has been a key player for the team, averaging 22:11 of ice time.
