NHL Hockey Player News
Wheeler will miss his third consecutive game due to COVID-19 protocol. Andrew Copp has filled in admirably in Wheeler's absence, so expect him to continue to be utilized in a top-6 role.
Scheifele remains in COVID-19 protocol and will miss his second straight game. Paul Stastny and Pierre-Luc Dubois will continue to operate as the team's top-2 centres while Scheifele is out.
Pinto will miss the remaining two games on the Senators' current homestand and then is not expected to travel with the team on their upcoming three-game road trip. With Pinto out, Nick Paul is expected to shift to centre on the Senators' second line.
This surgery will sideline Jones until at least the end of February, which means he could be back when the NHL returns from the Olympic break. The Ducks have 29 games after that break.
Saad will be unavailable for Saturday's game vs. the Kings due to COVID protocols. With Saad out, Klim Kostin skated on the top line in Friday's practice and Kyle Clifford is expected to draw into the lineup.
Barre-Boulet was lost to the Kraken on waivers but returns to the Lightning after playing two games with Seattle. Being re-claimed by the Lightning will allow them to send him to the AHL.
Janmark missed the first three games of the season in COVID-19 protocol but will play tonight vs. the Oilers. Janmark, who had five points (1G / 4A) in 15 games with the Golden Knights last year, will skate on the fourth line in his season debut.
Martinez fell awkwardly during Wednesday's loss to the Blues and did not return. Martinez was held off of the ice on Thursday and Friday and will not play vs. the Oilers. With Martinez unavailable, Nicolas Hague is expected to skate with Alex Pietrangelo.