Breaking News from the NHL: Injury Updates and Roster Moves!
Get ready for a whirlwind of changes as we dive into the latest from the ice! Here's what's happening around the league:
Toronto Maple Leafs
Defenseman Matt Benning might be lacing up for the Maple Leafs on Saturday against the New York Islanders, according to Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun. This would be his first NHL game in two seasons! Can you believe it? And, adding a layer of history, it's happening 40 years after his uncle Jim was traded by Toronto. Benning told the Sun this week, "when the chance comes I’ll be appreciative." He last played on Oct. 29, 2024, as a member of the San Jose Sharks. He was traded to Toronto as part of the deal for defenseman Timothy Liljegren. In his three seasons with the Sharks (2022-2024), he scored 26 points in 98 games.
Columbus Blue Jackets
Star defenseman Zach Werenski is back in action after being activated from injured reserve. But here's where it gets controversial... Dysin Mayo's emergency recall has been upgraded to a regular recall. Werenski has been out for the last four games due to a lower-body injury suffered on Dec. 20 against the Anaheim Ducks. The 28-year-old is a force to be reckoned with, ranking second among NHL defensemen in goals (14) and points (40) in 35 games this season. He's also second in the league in time on ice, averaging 26:48 per game. He was also selected to represent Team USA in the upcoming 2026 Olympic Winter Games.
Washington Capitals
Forward Pierre-Luc Dubois is back on the ice! He's resuming skating after undergoing abdominal surgery in early November. The initial recovery timeline was 3-4 months. He's only played in six games this season, with zero points. He is expected to return sometime after the Olympic break in February.
Buffalo Sabres
Defenseman Michael Kesselring will miss Saturday's game against the Columbus Blue Jackets due to a lower-body injury. In 16 games with Buffalo this season, the 25-year-old has zero points. Jacob Bryson will likely take his place in the lineup.
Chicago Blackhawks
The Chicago Blackhawks have sent forward Dominic Toninato to the Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League. He has one assist in five games with the Blackhawks this season. He also has five goals and 17 points in 25 games with the IceHogs.
What do you think of these roster moves? Will Benning make a big impact in his return? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
