Exciting Developments in the NHL: Toews Hits the Road with the Avalanche!
As the NHL season heats up, fans are eager for updates on player statuses and injuries, and there's a lot to unpack. The Colorado Avalanche are gearing up for a significant four-game road trip, but they will continue to be without defenseman Devon Toews, who is sidelined with an upper-body injury. This marks Toews' tenth consecutive game missed, raising concerns for both the team and its supporters. Despite this setback, Toews remains a bright spot on Team Canada’s roster for the upcoming Olympic Winter Games in Milano Cortina 2026. So far this season, he has tallied 13 points—comprising one goal and 12 assists—while boasting an impressive plus-26 rating over 40 games played.
In addition to Toews, forward Ross Colton is also nursing a lower-body injury and is listed as day-to-day. Colton missed the Avalanche's recent 7-3 defeat against the Philadelphia Flyers, and he has contributed 20 points (five goals, 15 assists) throughout his 48 appearances this season.
The Ottawa Senators are seeing some positive news on the injury front. Coach Travis Green recently announced that goaltender Linus Ullmark is "getting closer" to rejoining the lineup. Ullmark returned to the team on January 16 after taking a leave of absence for personal reasons on December 28. In the meantime, the Senators have recalled goalie Mads Sogaard from their AHL affiliate, Belleville, ahead of their match against the Vegas Golden Knights. Hunter Shepard has been reassigned to the AHL to make room for Sogaard. Although Green could not provide a specific timeline for Ullmark's return, he noted that he does not anticipate a lengthy wait. Ullmark's current record stands at 14 wins, 8 losses, and 5 overtime losses, with a goals-against average of 2.95 and a save percentage of .881 over 28 games this season.
In Anaheim, the Ducks are facing uncertainties as Mason McTavish is questionable to play against the Calgary Flames. The young forward has been absent for two games following an injury sustained during warmups prior to a thrilling 2-1 shootout victory over the Avalanche. Coach Joel Quenneville shared that McTavish is progressing well and has returned to Anaheim for treatment. However, it remains uncertain whether he will be able to join the team on this trip. McTavish has made notable contributions with 30 points (13 goals, 17 assists) in 49 games this season.
Meanwhile, the Toronto Maple Leafs continue to feel the impact of injuries, as William Nylander has now missed five straight games with a groin issue. He skated lightly before practice on Saturday, but there’s still no clear timeline for when he might return. Coach Craig Berube expressed hope that Nylander can continue to progress and get back on the ice soon. Leading the team with 48 points (17 goals, 31 assists) in just 37 games, Nylander is also set to represent Team Sweden in the Olympics.
On the injury watch for the Chicago Blackhawks, Teuvo Teravainen participated in the morning skate ahead of their game against the Florida Panthers, donning a non-contact jersey. Although he'll miss his sixth consecutive game, his return appears imminent as he continues to practice with the team. Teravainen has put together a respectable performance this season with 21 points (nine goals, 12 assists) over 45 games, and Coach Jeff Blashill noted that he is getting close to being fully fit.
Lastly, the Nashville Predators face a challenging situation as defenseman Nicolas Hague is now labeled week-to-week due to a lower-body injury sustained during a previous game against the Senators. Replacing him in the lineup, Adam Wilsby could not prevent a 5-2 defeat against the Utah Mammoth. This season, Hague has contributed 11 points (two goals, nine assists) across 41 games. Meanwhile, Nashville prepares for a three-game road trip starting with a matchup against the Boston Bruins.
These developments showcase the dynamic nature of the NHL, where player health and performance can shift rapidly. What do you think about the current state of injuries impacting teams? Are there any players you believe will make a significant comeback this season? Share your thoughts in the comments!
