Tampa Bay Lightning center Brayden Point suffered a right knee injury during Monday's game, leaving him week-to-week and casting doubt on his participation in the upcoming Olympics. The injury has sparked discussions about potential replacements for Team Canada, with experts suggesting top candidates across positions. Other Canadian players like Bo Horvat and Devon Toews are also dealing with ailments, adding to the uncertainty ahead of the tournament in Milan.
Brayden Point's injury occurred in a game against an unspecified opponent, prompting Tampa Bay Lightning and Team Canada coach Jon Cooper to confirm the center would be sidelined week-to-week. As a key member of Canada's Olympic roster, Point's status for the mid-February tournament in Milan now appears precarious, reigniting speculation on injury replacements.
Bo Horvat of the New York Islanders is nursing an injury but is anticipated to recover in time. Colorado Avalanche defenseman Devon Toews is out with an upper-body issue, compounded by the expected birth of his fourth child around the tournament dates. Washington Capitals winger Tom Wilson remains day-to-day. With the pre-Olympic break starting February 6 and the injury bug persisting, Canada faces robust competition for any roster spots that open up.
Adam Proteau of The Hockey News outlined top replacement picks: for forward, Winnipeg Jets center Mark Scheifele, who has 22 goals and 52 points in 44 games this season, nearing career highs and excelling in playoffs. Alternatives like Chicago's Connor Bedard and Dallas' Wyatt Johnston were considered, but Scheifele's experience edges him out. On defense, 18-year-old New York Islanders standout Matthew Schaefer, with 12 goals and 29 points in his rookie NHL season, offers dynamism and maturity. Calgary's MacKenzie Weegar and others like Edmonton's Evan Bouchard were noted, but Schaefer's potential shines. For goaltender, Colorado's Mackenzie Blackwood leads with a .924 save percentage, 2.07 GAA, and 10 goals saved above expected, despite a current injury; no strong alternatives were highlighted.
These selections underscore Canada's depth, ensuring minimal drop-off in quality. The Olympic gold medal favorites continue preparations amid these challenges.
