Injury Impact Report: Key Players Sidelined Across the League

William Nylander January 21, 2024. Photo credits: Jenn G.

Written By Gina Anton

As the 2025–26 NHL season passes its midpoint, injuries continue to shape rosters across the league, forcing teams to adjust lineups and test organizational depth.

Rodrigo Abols & Rasmus Ristolainen – Philadelphia Flyers

Status: Abols placed on IR (lower body), Ristolainen also on IR (upper body).

Impact: Philadelphia loses depth at forward and a veteran presence on defense for at least the next week. Flyers will rely on recalls and internal options to fill bottom-six and defensive minutes.

Eric Robinson – Carolina Hurricanes

Status: Left game with upper-body injury; details still emerging.

Impact: Adds to Carolina’s recent injury turnover and could mean more ice time for secondary forwards.

William Nylander – Toronto Maple Leafs

Status: Missed games with lower-body injury; return date uncertain.

Impact: His absence weighs on Toronto’s scoring balance and playoff standing, forcing depth players into top-six roles.

Luke Hughes – New Jersey Devils

Status: Placed on Long-Term IR (shoulder) as of Jan. 19.

Impact: Significant defense loss for New Jersey. Devils will need heavier rotation on the blue line and careful matchup planning without their puck-moving D‑man.

Erik Karlsson – Pittsburgh Penguins

Status: Practicing in non-contact after lower-body injury; was on IR.

Impact: If he returns soon, Penguins stabilize their breakout and power-play setup. His absence earlier led to defensive simplification and increased minutes for younger defenders.