Minnesota Wild’s Playoff Challenge
As the Minnesota Wild gear up for their second-round playoff matchup with the Colorado Avalanche, they face a significant setback with the absence of two key players: forward Joel Eriksson Ek and defenseman Jonas Brodin. Both are sidelined due to lower-body injuries and did not travel with the team to Denver for the series’ opening game scheduled for Sunday night.
Impact of Injuries
Head Coach John Hynes has noted that the Wild are still finalizing their lineup decisions in light of these injuries.
“Ekky’s a big part of the team,”
Hynes emphasized, noting Eriksson Ek’s contributions, including three goals and two assists during the Wild’s first-round victory over the Dallas Stars, plus a commendable 56.4% faceoff win rate. To fill the void left by Eriksson Ek, players like Danila Yurov and Hunter Haight are being considered as potential replacements.
Avalanche’s Adjustments
Meanwhile, the Avalanche will also miss one of their own. Defenseman Josh Manson has been ruled out after missing the series-clinching game against the Los Angeles Kings due to an upper-body injury. Avalanche coach Jared Bednar announced that Nick Blankenburg, recently acquired from Nashville in early March, will step into Manson’s role.
“He has performed well since joining us,”
Bednar remarked, praising Blankenburg’s puck movement and willingness to engage physically. However, he acknowledged Manson’s presence will be missed due to his size and strength.
Looking Ahead
On the horizon, with Game 2 not scheduled until Tuesday, there’s an opportunity for both Eriksson Ek and Brodin to be reassessed for their fitness ahead of the weekend’s match, suggesting the potential for a swift return if their recovery allows. Hynes expressed cautious optimism, indicating that the team’s challenge now will be navigating the series collectively in the absence of their pivotal players.
