Injury Updates Across the NHL: Turcotte Out for Kings, Roy Sidelined in D.C., Nylander Nearing Return
The Los Angeles Kings will be without center Alex Turcotte for the rest of their road swing, as head coach Jim Hiller confirmed the 24-year-old is dealing with an upper-body injury. Turcotte has returned to L.A. and is expected to be out until at least next Wednesday, when the Kings host the Seattle Kraken.
While Turcotte hasn’t quite lived up to the expectations that come with being a top-five draft pick, he’s quietly carved out a meaningful role in the Kings’ middle six. Offensively, the numbers don’t jump off the page-12 points in 49 games-but his impact goes beyond the scoresheet.
Turcotte is winning draws at a career-best 55.7% clip and posting an impressive 57.2% Corsi For at even strength, signaling strong puck possession when he’s on the ice. He’s become a reliable third-line option, and his absence will be felt, especially in the faceoff circle and on the forecheck.
Capitals’ Blue Line Takes a Hit
In Washington, the Capitals are without defenseman Matt Roy tonight as they take on the Detroit Red Wings. Roy, who’s nursing a lower-body injury, is missing his second game of the season after also sitting out last Tuesday. Rasmus Sandin, who was also questionable, has been cleared to return.
Roy has been a steady presence on the Capitals’ blue line this year. Logging over 20 minutes a night-third most on the team-he’s been a key shutdown option on the right side.
His 14 points in 53 games may not make headlines, but his value lies in his consistency and ability to eat tough minutes. The hope is that he’ll be ready to return by Saturday when Washington hosts Carolina.
Until then, Declan Chisholm stays in the lineup.
Nylander Skates, But Still Out Tonight
In Toronto, there’s cautious optimism surrounding William Nylander. The Leafs’ leading scorer hit the ice at practice, but he won’t suit up tonight in Seattle. The groin issue that sidelined him for six games earlier this season continues to linger, but there’s a “good chance” he returns Saturday in Vancouver.
Toronto has felt his absence in a big way. Without Nylander-who’s racked up 48 points in just 37 games-the Leafs have stumbled to a 1-4-1 record, failing to secure a win in regulation during that span. It’s a tough stretch for a team fighting to stay in the playoff mix, and getting their top offensive weapon back could be the jolt they need.
As the playoff race heats up, these injury timelines could have ripple effects across the standings. Whether it’s the Kings trying to hold ground in the West, the Capitals staying afloat in the East, or the Leafs clawing for consistency, every game-and every player-matters.