Central Division Notebook: Colin Miller’s Setback, Nazar Nearing Return, Heiskanen Back, and Ivan Ivan on the Move Again
The Winnipeg Jets’ blue line took another hit this week, as head coach Scott Arniel confirmed that defenseman Colin Miller recently underwent knee surgery. The procedure, according to Arniel, is similar to the one that sidelined goaltender Connor Hellebuyck for four weeks earlier this season. For now, Miller remains listed as “week-to-week,” but the timing of the surgery couldn’t be tougher for a Jets team already thin on the back end.
Miller, 33, has seen limited action this season, dressing for just 13 games. But with both Neal Pionk and Haydn Fleury also out week-to-week, there was a real opportunity for Miller to step into a more regular role.
That window now closes, at least temporarily, as he begins his recovery. For a veteran trying to carve out minutes on a deep blue line, the timing is far from ideal.
Nazar Trending Toward Return in Chicago
In Chicago, there’s some positive news on the injury front. Rookie center Frank Nazar took part in the Blackhawks’ morning skate and is expected to be a full participant in practice tomorrow as he works his way back from an upper-body injury. Originally projected to miss about four weeks, it looks like he’s right on schedule.
Nazar has been one of the bright spots in a rebuilding season for the Blackhawks. At 22, he’s making his mark in his first full NHL campaign, tallying six goals and 15 assists through 33 games.
What’s even more impressive? He’s averaging over 18 minutes of ice time per night - a clear sign the coaching staff trusts him in all situations.
His return will be a welcome boost for a team looking to build momentum in the second half of the season.
Heiskanen Returns to Stars Practice
Meanwhile in Dallas, Miro Heiskanen was back on the ice with his teammates after missing Thursday’s game due to a personal matter. The 26-year-old defenseman has been in vintage form this season, bouncing back strong after what was, by his standards, a quieter 2024-25 campaign.
Through 46 games, Heiskanen has racked up 36 points and 87 blocked shots, all while logging a career-high 26:04 of ice time per game - the third-highest average in the league. That kind of workload speaks volumes about his importance to the Stars’ defensive structure.
He’s not just eating minutes - he’s thriving in them. Getting him back in the mix is a big plus for Dallas as they continue to jockey for playoff positioning.
Avalanche Continue to Shuffle Ivan Ivan
Out in Colorado, the Avalanche made another roster move involving forward Ivan Ivan, assigning him back to AHL Colorado. It’s the third time in just over a week that he’s been recalled and then reassigned - a clear sign of how the Avs are managing depth and cap space as they navigate injuries and roster flexibility.
Ivan suited up against Nashville on Friday, marking his sixth NHL appearance of the season. He’s registered one assist at the top level so far, while posting two goals and six assists in 31 games with the Eagles. At 23, he’s still very much in the development phase, but these short stints with the big club are valuable reps that could pay off down the line.
Final Thoughts
Injuries, recoveries, and roster shuffling - it’s all part of the grind as the Central Division hits the heart of the season. For Winnipeg, the loss of Miller adds to an already banged-up blue line.
In Chicago, Nazar’s return can’t come soon enough. Dallas gets a key piece back in Heiskanen, while Colorado continues to work the margins with Ivan Ivan.
Every move matters this time of year, and for these teams, the margins are where seasons are won or lost.