Anaheim Ducks Lose Top Centre to Rare Injury

Leo Carlsson Injury Explained

The Anaheim Ducks announced Friday that centre Leo Carlsson will be out approximately three-to-five weeks after undergoing a procedure in Los Angeles to treat a Morel-Lavallée lesion in his left thigh. The update came via the team and was later detailed in the NHL’s daily status report.

A Morel-Lavallée lesion is an uncommon soft-tissue injury typically caused by high-velocity or shearing trauma. Specifically, it occurs when layers of tissue beneath the skin separate, allowing fluid to collect in the space between them. As a result, the injury often requires a medical procedure and a carefully managed recovery timeline. While it does not involve bones or ligaments, healing can vary depending on severity and response to treatment.

Carlsson, 21, left practice early earlier in the week and did not return. However, he later participated in a morning skate and was listed as a game-time decision before ultimately sitting out Anaheim’s 3–1 win over the Dallas Stars.

Olympic Implications and Recovery Outlook

Meanwhile, the Leo Carlsson injury has also created uncertainty around his availability for the Olympic Winter Games in Milano Cortina 2026. Carlsson was recently named to Sweden’s roster, with Tre Kronor opening tournament play against host nation Italy on February 11th. Notably, that date falls near the low end of his projected recovery window.

The timeline does not definitively rule him out. However, his Olympic status will depend on how his recovery progresses over the next several weeks. Naturally, you have to feel for Carlsson given the timing. He is viewed as an important piece for a medal-contending Swedish team and had positioned himself for a significant role.

Still, there is reason for cautious optimism. Two seasons ago, Carlsson returned quicker than expected from a knee injury, offering a reminder that he has previously responded well to rehabilitation. While no outcome can be assumed, that history provides context as he works back from this setback.

Ducks Adjust Without Their No. 1 Centre

From an NHL standpoint, Anaheim is now without its number one centre at a critical point in the season. Carlsson leads the Ducks with 44 points on 18 goals and 26 assists through 44 games, anchoring the top line and serving as a focal point on the power play.

However, the Ducks have managed short-term success in his absence. Since Carlsson last played, Anaheim is 2–0 without him, including the win over Dallas that snapped a nine-game skid and an enormous win over their division-rival Los Angeles. That result provides some immediate encouragement, even as the broader impact of losing their top centre remains significant.

Ultimately, the Ducks will need to navigate the coming weeks and win some games in his absence. Carlsson’s return, whether before or after the Olympic break, remains critical to Anaheim’s season.