NHL 2024-25 Season: Injuries and Milestones Taking Center Stage
The 2024-25 NHL season is well underway, and it’s shaping up to be a year of intense drama both on and off the ice. As fans fill arenas with eager anticipation, the physical rigor of hockey has once again made itself known through a wave of injuries impacting key players across the league. Meanwhile, the pursuit of one of hockey's most coveted records continues to capture the imagination of the sports world.
Ovechkin’s Pursuit of History
Among the stories that have captivated fans this season, Alex Ovechkin's quest to break Wayne Gretzky's all-time goals record is undoubtedly at the forefront. The Washington Capitals star is making headlines as he inches closer to this legendary feat. However, in a twist that only sports can deliver, Ovechkin is currently sidelined with a week-to-week lower-leg injury following a collision last month with Utah forward Jack McBain. While the Capitals have comfortably listed him without placing him on injured reserve, the team and fans alike are eager for his return to the rink.
Buffalo Sabres and Their Struggling Fortunes
In other parts of the NHL landscape, the Buffalo Sabres find themselves fighting to turn the tide of a massive losing streak. Star defenseman Rasmus Dahlin has been conspicuously absent from the lineup, missing the last seven games due to persistent back spasms. There is a glimmer of hope, though, as Dahlin is making strides towards recovery and might be back on the ice against the Toronto Maple Leafs on Friday, December 20. His return could be pivotal for a team desperately in need of a spark.
Injury Bug Bites Hard Across the League
The injury list is hefty this season, with high-profile names like Trevor Zegras of the Anaheim Ducks and Hampus Lindholm of the Boston Bruins sidelined due to lower-body injuries. Zegras has been out since early December, while Lindholm has been missing in action since mid-November. Over in Colorado, Gabriel Landeskog’s knee woes have kept him away since mid-2022, yet it's not just the Western Conference facing challenges. In the East, the Boston Bruins’ defensive stalwarts are feeling the pressure of keeping the pace without Lindholm.
From the ever-competitive Metropolitan Division, injuries have been a considerable disruptor. Carolina’s Frederik Andersen is dealing with his lower-body injury, although he hasn't been placed on injured reserve yet. Meanwhile, the New York Islanders are managing without Anthony Duclair, who’s dealing with a lower-body injury, whereas Mike Reilly remains active despite upper-body concerns.
San Jose Sharks and Toronto Maple Leafs Among Impacted Teams
A look at the San Jose Sharks finds both Marc-Edouard Vlasic and Logan Couture on injured reserve, nursing an upper-body injury and a groin injury respectively. In Toronto, the Maple Leafs are without Anthony Stolarz following his knee surgery, adding to the growing list of seasoned players battling health issues. Calle Jarnkrok also finds himself on the injury report, sidelined since late September.
This season of NHL action is marked by these ups and downs, injuries and achievements. With players anxious to return and continue their campaigns, fans hope to see their favorites recover swiftly and spectacularly. As each game unfolds, the resilience of these athletes remains at the heart of what keeps the sport exhilarating and unpredictable.