Injuries Take a Toll Early in the NHL Season

The 2025-26 NHL season is just getting underway, but the New York Rangers have already faced a significant setback with star player Vincent Trocheck being placed on long-term injured reserve due to an upper-body injury. The announcement came on Wednesday, revealing that Trocheck will be sidelined until at least November 1.

Trocheck's injury isn't isolated; other teams are grappling with their own injury woes as well. Florida Panthers defenseman Dmitry Kulikov will miss an extended period, potentially up to five months, following surgery for a labral tear. This troubling news was confirmed by Panthers coach Paul Maurice.

In a similar vein, New Jersey Devils coach Sheldon Keefe reported that goaltender Jacob Markstrom is expected to be out for a couple of weeks due to a lower-body injury, adding to the mounting injury list across the league.

The Ottawa Senators are also holding their breath as captain Brady Tkachuk is set to miss around four weeks because of an injury to his right hand. Senators owner Michael Andlauer shared that Tkachuk is seeking a second opinion and hopes to clarify whether surgery will be necessary.

With many teams already facing significant player absences so early in the season, the impact on the league's landscape could be profound. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as more updates unfold.

This article will be updated soon to provide more information and analysis.