NHL Injury News: Marchand, Eklund, Montembeault, Hyman

In today’s NHL injury news update, the Ottawa Senators are facing an extended absence for William Eklund, while the Florida Panthers have provided a clearer timeline for Brad Marchand’s return. The Winnipeg Jets are monitoring defenseman Josh Morrissey after he was ruled out and listed as day-to-day, and the Montreal Canadiens will be without goaltender Samuel Montembeault for the next 10 to 14 days. Finally, the Edmonton Oilers could soon receive a major boost, with Zach Hyman expected to return to practice as he works toward a potential comeback next week.

Senators’ William Eklund Out for an Extended Period

The Ottawa Senators will be without William Eklund for an extended period after the forward suffered an ankle injury during Thursday’s 2-1 win over the Philadelphia Flyers. Head coach Travis Green confirmed Friday that the 23-year-old is expected to return at some point during the regular season, although he could not provide an exact timeline.

Eklund was injured in the first period after being hit awkwardly into the boards by Flyers defenseman Simon Benoit. He struggled to put weight on his left leg while heading down the tunnel and did not return to the game. While the injury is concerning, Green indicated that surgery is not expected to be necessary.

Jets’ Josh Morrissey Listed as Day-to-Day

The Winnipeg Jets are monitoring defenseman Josh Morrissey after head coach Scott Arniel confirmed that he would not play Friday and is considered day-to-day. The team has not provided a more detailed update on the nature or severity of the injury.

Morrissey is a key piece of Winnipeg’s blue line, so his absence is a hiccup after the Jets’ hot start to the season. Mario Ferraro has handled additional minutes when required and delivered a strong performance at five-on-five and on the penalty kill. He’ll be heavily relied upon if Morrissey misses any real time.

Panthers Expect Brad Marchand Back in November

The Florida Panthers have a clearer idea of when Brad Marchand could return after the winger sustained a lower-body injury against the Los Angeles Kings. Head coach Paul Maurice said Marchand is expected to miss approximately six weeks and should resume skating in about three weeks, putting a potential return in November.

Marchand was injured late in the second period after a collision with Kings defenseman Brandt Clarke sent him into the net. He needed help leaving the ice and appeared unable to put weight on his left leg. The setback comes after Marchand underwent surgery in August and missed significant time late last season.

Although the latest injury will keep him out for several weeks, the current expectation is that it is not season-ending. Florida likely won’t look at the trade market, nor will they spend significant money on unrestricted free agents who remain unsigned.

Canadiens Lose Montembeault For 10-14 Days

The Montreal Canadiens will be without goaltender Samuel Montembeault for the next 10 to 14 days after he suffered a lower-body injury at Wednesday’s practice. The injury appeared to occur without contact, and Montembeault struggled to put weight on his right side as he left the ice.