Mikey Anderson Eyes Return as Kings Gear Up for Vegas Clash
Los Angeles Kings fans have reason to be optimistic as defenseman Mikey Anderson is hopeful to return to action in the upcoming game against Vegas on February 25. The 26-year-old has been making strides during the break, skating and progressing well after a finger injury sidelined him on February 1 during a clash with Carolina.
Without Anderson, the Kings struggled, dropping their last two games and getting outscored 8-3, highlighting just how much they miss his defensive prowess alongside Drew Doughty. Anderson was placed on injured reserve on February 8, but his potential return could be just the boost the Kings need.
The upcoming matchup against Vegas is set to be a thrilling affair, especially with Artemi Panarin expected to make his much-anticipated debut for the Kings. However, the excitement is tempered by the absence of Kevin Fiala, who suffered a severe injury in Milan. With Anderson back in the lineup, the Kings are aiming to overtake Anaheim for the second Wild Card spot and make a strong playoff push.
Around the League: Luukkonen's Return Bolsters Sabres
In Buffalo, there's positive news as goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen returned to practice today, signaling he might be ready for the Sabres' next game. The soon-to-be 27-year-old had to leave a game against Toronto on January 27 due to a lower-body injury, which also kept him from starting the season and cost him a spot on Team Finland for the Olympics. With a .902 save percentage and a 2.73 goals-against average, Luukkonen's return is eagerly awaited as Buffalo prepares to face New Jersey next Wednesday.
Reflecting Luukkonen’s promising recovery, the Sabres have reassigned Scott Ratzlaff to ECHL Jacksonville. The 20-year-old netminder, a fifth-round pick in 2023, had the opportunity to practice with the big club during the Olympic break. Ratzlaff has shown promise in his first professional season, boasting a .916 save percentage in the ECHL and contributing to AHL Rochester with three wins in six games.
As the NHL season resumes post-Olympics, teams are eagerly welcoming back key players, setting the stage for an exciting stretch run to the playoffs.