In the latest edition of Ice Chips, we bring you all the updates on injuries and roster changes from around the NHL. Let’s dive right in!
First up, we have forward Nazem Kadri of the Calgary Flames. Kadri was back on the ice for the morning skate ahead of the Flames’ preseason game against the Seattle Kraken. Our very own Salim Valji reported that Kadri had been sidelined since a knee-on-knee collision with teammate Blake Coleman during practice on Friday. The 33-year-old center, who played in all 82 games last season and racked up an impressive 29 goals and 75 points, seemed to be making progress towards a return.
Meanwhile, over in Toronto, forward John Tavares was spotted skating on Monday, although he did not take part in practice. Mark Masters informed us that Tavares, along with injured teammates Calle Jarnkrok, Connor Dewar, and defenseman Jani Hakanpaa, skated on a separate ice sheet wearing red non-contact jerseys. The Maple Leafs’ captain had a scary moment in their preseason game against the Montreal Canadiens when he collided with Michael Pezzetta, but he soldiered on until the third period. Head coach Craig Berube provided an update, revealing that Tavares and Jarnkrok are expected to rejoin the main group for practice on Wednesday. The 34-year-old center had a stellar season last year, tallying 29 goals and 65 points in 80 games.
Lastly, in Toronto, forward Bobby McMann made his return to practice on Monday after missing Saturday’s session for maintenance. Masters shared the news, indicating that McMann was back on the ice with his teammates as they prepared for the upcoming season.
Stay tuned for more updates and insights from around the NHL as the preseason action heats up and teams make final preparations for the start of the regular season. Ice Chips has you covered with all the latest news, so be sure to check back daily for more updates!