Maple Leafs: Matthews Sidelined for Devils Clash in NHL Update
The latest NHL status report reveals significant updates regarding player injuries and lineups. Notably, Auston Matthews of the Toronto Maple Leafs has been sidelined due to a lower-body injury. His absence is felt as he has amassed 27 points, including 15 goals and 12 assists, over 33 games this season.
Player Injury Updates
Matthews’ injury occurred ahead of the game against the New Jersey Devils. Other Maple Leafs players, including defenseman Chris Tanev and forward Dakota Joshua, are also unavailable. Joshua was hurt during a recent 3-2 overtime defeat to the Detroit Red Wings and remains hospitalized for kidney observation.
Toronto coach Craig Berube expressed concern over Joshua’s status, indicating the need for further assessment. In response to the injuries, the Maple Leafs recalled defenseman Matt Benning and forward Jacob Quillan from their AHL affiliate.
Montreal Canadiens and Sam Montembeault
In Montreal, goalie Sam Montembeault started for the Canadiens against the Florida Panthers for the first time since December 2. His previous outing resulted in a challenging 5-2 loss to the Ottawa Senators. Montembeault’s recent form shows he has struggled, holding a record of 5-6-1, with a 3.65 goals-against average this season.
Calgary Flames Contract Update
The Calgary Flames have announced a two-year, $2.7 million contract for Devin Cooley, effective next season. The deal carries an average annual value of $1.35 million. Cooley has played 13 games this season, achieving a record of 4-4-2 with a 2.40 goals-against average.
Columbus Blue Jackets Moves
The Columbus Blue Jackets have placed Isac Lundestrom on injured reserve due to a lower-body injury. Lundestrom is expected to be out for at least a week. Apart from Lundestrom, the Blue Jackets have made an emergency recall of defenseman Dysin Mayo from the AHL.
Chicago Blackhawks Updates
Connor Bedard, a rising star for the Chicago Blackhawks, returned to skating this week after an upper-body injury. His injury, sustained during a face-off against the St. Louis Blues, raised concerns, but the team remains optimistic about his future. Bedard has impressed in his debut season with a total of 44 points in 31 games.
As the league progresses, organizations are facing pivotal injury challenges as they prepare for upcoming games, including the Flames hosting the Philadelphia Flyers and the Blue Jackets facing the New Jersey Devils.
