Joel Eriksson Ek’s Potential Comeback
In a crucial moment for the Minnesota Wild, center Joel Eriksson Ek took to the ice during Friday’s practice—albeit in a limited capacity. Head coach John Hynes expressed optimism regarding Eriksson Ek’s potential comeback from a lower-body injury, possibly in time for Game 3 of their NHL playoff series against the Colorado Avalanche. The injury occurred on April 30 when Eriksson Ek collided with the boards in the final game of the first round against Dallas, although he managed to finish that match.
Impact of Eriksson Ek’s Presence
Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 207 pounds, Eriksson Ek is known for his tough presence near the net and his strong defensive skills, both of which have been sorely missed as the Wild dropped the first two games of the series, allowing a daunting 14 goals. “
I thought he looked good out there, so that was certainly encouraging,
” Hynes remarked following Eriksson Ek’s practice session. “
We had a plan for him to get some skating in before practice as well as during it, so we will evaluate from here.
“
The atmosphere in practice seemed to lift with Eriksson Ek’s participation, especially since he brings an unwavering energy to the team. Forward Nick Foligno highlighted this, remarking on Eriksson Ek’s resilience by sharing a humorous quip from the veteran: “
He has a joke where he says, ‘What is tired?’ He doesn’t even know what that word means, so I just love guys like that. We need those guys—they’re the engines of our team, and we’re excited for his return.
“
Other Player Updates
While the return of Eriksson Ek remains uncertain, another veteran, defenseman Jonas Brodin, still has not begun skating after suffering an injury in Game 5 against the Stars on April 28. Hynes confirmed that Brodin will not be available for Game 3 against the Avalanche on Saturday.
Meanwhile, right winger Mats Zuccarello missed practice due to illness but is expected to join the team on the ice for the game. The Wild may also regain defenseman Zach Bogosian, who missed Game 2 due to a lower-body injury and could be back in the lineup on Saturday.
Colorado Avalanche Updates
For the Avalanche, the potential return of defenseman Josh Manson looms, as he has been sidelined with an upper-body injury sustained during the first round against the Los Angeles Kings. He missed both the series-clinching Game 4 and the first two matchups against the Wild. Notably, fellow defenseman Jack Ahcan did not travel with the team to Minnesota, suggesting that Manson is on track to either play in Game 3 or possibly return by Game 4 on Monday. Colorado coach Jared Bednar conveyed confidence in Manson’s progress, stating, “
We feel good about it.
“
