Bo Horvat's recent injury with the New York Islanders appears minor and unlikely to affect his Olympic prospects. The Edmonton Oilers have called up prospects Ike Howard and Quinn Hutson amid roster tweaks. Trade speculation swirls around Buffalo Sabres forward Alex Tuch as a potential target for teams like the New York Rangers.
New York Islanders center Bo Horvat sustained an injury on Thursday, but reports indicate it is not serious. Stefan Rosner of NHL.com and The Hockey News described it as similar to a previous issue with a 1-3 week recovery timeline. Pierre LeBrun added that the injury poses no threat to Horvat's participation with Team Canada at the 2026 Olympics. Teammate Mathew Barzal echoed the optimism, stating, “He seems all right. He’ll be fine. We’ll have him back soon.”
Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers recalled forwards Ike Howard and Quinn Hutson from the AHL's Bakersfield Condors on Friday, ahead of their Saturday matchup against the Philadelphia Flyers. The moves aim to bolster the offense, with Max Jones recently loaned to the AHL. Analyst Jason Gregor suggested potential line combinations, such as Howard with Connor McDavid and Zach Hyman, or Hutson with Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Matt Savoie. Practice lines kept Nugent-Hopkins on the top line, testing a skilled third unit with the rookies.
Trade buzz centers on Buffalo Sabres winger Alex Tuch, ranked third on The Athletic's trade board. As a 2026 unrestricted free agent earning $4.75 million, Tuch has scored 35 goals this season. Extension talks with new Sabres GM Jarmo Kekäläinen have reset, but the team's 10-game winning streak makes a deal unlikely soon. Chris Johnston predicts the New York Rangers as a fit, citing their cap space and need for offense if Artemi Panarin departs. Pierre LeBrun sees the Los Angeles Kings as another option to boost their right wing.
Broader speculation includes Calgary Flames' Blake Coleman potentially heading to the Tampa Bay Lightning or Dallas Stars for his two-way play. St. Louis Blues defenseman Justin Faulk could land with the Vegas Golden Knights or Florida Panthers. Edmonton Oilers winger Andrew Mangiapane, recently scratched, might move to the Winnipeg Jets or Toronto Maple Leafs despite his no-trade clause.
