Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Minnesota Wild fans are anxiously awaiting news on the condition of their captain, Jared Spurgeon. After he took a hard hit during Thursday night’s preseason game, it sounds like he’ll miss some time. Consequently, if he’s out of action for any extended period, that’s clearly not good news for the Wild.

According to Frank Seravalli of Daily Faceoff, Spurgeon is currently under evaluation. That said, it appears likely that he will be out of action for several weeks. Head coach Dean Evason expressed concern about Spurgeon’s injury, stating, “It’s not positive, but we’ll get a better evaluation tomorrow.” The uncertainty surrounding Spurgeon’s availability for the upcoming opening night has left Wild fans on edge.

Spurgeon’s absence could have a significant impact on the team. A vital part of the Wild, he’s served as their captain for the past three seasons. He consistently contributes as a double-digit goal-scorer, capable of 40-point seasons. While he may not be the most prominent player or the top scorer, he is a resilient and skilled defenseman. Moreover, he relishes contributing to the offense whenever possible.

Who Will Replace Spurgeon in the Lineup?

If Spurgeon is sidelined, veteran defenseman Alex Goligoski is expected to step in as their seventh defenseman. Not an ideal situation, the team and its supporters will be closely monitoring Spurgeon’s recovery. Obviously, all are hoping for a speedy return to the ice for their influential captain.

More must-reads:

TODAY'S BEST
Do Oilers need more from Connor McDavid to get to Stanley Cup Final?
All-Rookie teams show gems available all over draft
The NBA has not witnessed this much parity in 50 years
Knicks expected to be 'aggressive' in upgrading their roster
Drew Bledsoe offers advice for Patriots rookie QB Drake Maye
2024 AFC revenge games: Brothers, 'Stefon Diggs Bowl' to take center stage
2024 NFC revenge games: Which game should Cowboys, others have circled?
How All-Star Race victory could turn Joey Logano's season around
Xander Schauffele's triumph could open the floodgates for his career
Anderson Silva, Chael Sonnen will finish off their trilogy in a boxing ring
Ranking the five best MLB free-agent signings of offseason
Veteran WR, former first-round pick announces NFL retirement
Oilers advance to West Final again after holding off Canucks in Game 7
Bengals star WR not expected to sign franchise tender before OTAs
Red Sox RHP diagnosed with ligament damage in elbow
Watch: Caitlin Clark shows off range with logo three, but Fever fall short
Former Dolphins receiving leader announces his retirement from NFL
Detroit Lions dominate PFF's top-25 players under 25
Hall of Famer, legendary Raiders offensive lineman dead at 86
Report: Cavs owner 'would never' trade Donovan Mitchell to this team