Panthers' Marchand Faces Weeks Out as Surgery Decision Looms

Brad Marchands potential surgery looms large for the Panthers, while key injuries continue to impact the NHL landscape.

Florida Panthers Update

The Florida Panthers are closely monitoring forward Brad Marchand's situation as he faces the possibility of surgery for a persistent lower-body injury. Head coach Paul Maurice shared that a decision is imminent regarding the best path to full recovery for Marchand. Surgery or not, it seems Marchand will be sidelined for an extended period, spanning weeks rather than days.

Marchand has been a key player for the Panthers, racking up 27 goals and 54 points in 52 games this season. His last appearance was on March 6 against the Detroit Red Wings, where he contributed an assist in just under 12 minutes of ice time. Despite missing 10 of the 15 games leading up to the Olympics, Marchand still managed to assist Canada in securing a silver medal at Milano Cortina 2026.

Seattle Kraken News

The Seattle Kraken will be without forward Jaden Schwartz for an indefinite period due to an upper-body injury. Schwartz sustained the injury after taking a skate to the face during the first period of Saturday's game against the Ottawa Senators.

Despite the alarming incident, Schwartz left the ice under his own power. This season, Schwartz has contributed 10 goals and 21 points in 42 games for the Kraken, who are currently clinging to the final wild-card spot in the Western Conference.

Ottawa Senators Update

The Ottawa Senators have called up defenseman Dennis Gilbert from the AHL’s Belleville Senators. This move comes as Jake Sanderson is sidelined week-to-week following a hard hit from Kraken defenseman Brandon Montour. Sanderson's injury occurred during Ottawa’s recent road trip, which wraps up tonight in Vancouver.

Gilbert, who has been productive in the AHL with 12 assists in 31 games, is no stranger to the Senators. He was originally acquired from the Sabres in a trade involving Dylan Cozens and has had stints with several NHL teams. Gilbert’s return to Ottawa aims to bolster the defense as the Senators continue their road trip.

Toronto Maple Leafs Practice Report

The Toronto Maple Leafs are gearing up for their clash against the Montreal Canadiens with a full squad at practice. The team is looking to turn things around after a tough 0-5-2 stretch post-Olympics, which included parting ways with forwards Nicolas Roy, Bobby McMann, and Scott Laughton at the trade deadline.

The practice lines featured Knies with Matthews and Domi, while Tavares centered Maccelli and Nylander. The Leafs are eager to break their slump and regain momentum in the upcoming matchup.

Montreal Canadiens Update

Rookie forward Oliver Kapanen took a therapy day, missing practice as the Canadiens prepare to host the Maple Leafs. Kapanen, who has been impressive with 19 goals and 32 points, recently contributed to Finland’s bronze medal win at the Olympics. The Canadiens are set to take on their rivals, the Maple Leafs, in what promises to be an exciting encounter.