Valeri Nichushkin of the Colorado Avalanche is facing a potentially extended absence due to a lower-body injury after suffering a setback in recovery. Avalanche coach Jared Bednar expressed concern about the uncertainty surrounding Nichushkin’s return, indicating the process of rehabilitation will require patience and careful rebuilding.
On another note, Cole Sillinger from the Columbus Blue Jackets is classified as day-to-day with an upper-body injury and will be evaluated soon to assess his potential return to play against the Carolina Hurricanes. Meanwhile, the Minnesota Wild are hopeful for the returns of Kirill Kaprizov and Jared Spurgeon, both of whom have been sidelined due to lower-body injuries for multiple games. Coach John Hynes is optimistic about their participation in the upcoming game.
Other notable updates include David Perron of the Ottawa Senators, who is expected to rejoin his team's lineup after an absence since November 23rd, while Josh Norris may return later this weekend following his own recovery. The Toronto Maple Leafs placed Max Pacioretty on injured reserve due to his ongoing recovery, and Matthew Knies is also awaiting updates after leaving last game due to an upper-body injury.
From the Winnipeg Jets, Adam Lowry is facing a week-to-week timeline with an upper-body injury, but Mason Appleton has made a comeback following an 11-game absence.
