“We’re taking zero chances”.
That’s how Coach Jon Cooper responded to a question about injuries (Pontus Holmberg in particular) in training camp. With Brayden Point and Holmberg joining Andrei Vasilevskiy on the sidelines, there was some concern about the health of the team overall. While Coach Cooper acknowledged that some of the players are a little dinged up, he didn’t seem too concerned about how long they’re going to be out.
It makes sense to take it easy with almost two weeks left in training camp. The trio of players that are undergoing “maintenance” days are veterans, and their spots on the roster are all but given. There is no need for them to risk aggravating their injuries for practice or pre-season games.
The coach did clarify Vasilevskiy’s status. The all-world goaltender has been off of the ice for about a week, and Coach Cooper confirmed he would not play in either pre-season game this weekend. That being said, he does expect him back on the ice on Monday. Even if he doesn’t appear in the game on Tuesday against the Panthers, the Bolts have two games after that for the Big Cat to get some action.
At this stage in his career, Vasilevskiy hasn’t played a lot in the pre-season, so other than losing a week or so of practice time, he’s not that far off from his previous training camps. As long as he doesn’t aggravate whatever has kept him off of the ice, expect another 60+ start season for the all-star.
Hockey News
Roman Schmidt – Top 25 Under 25 #12 – [Raw Charge]
The big guy should spend the entire season in Syracuse. If it goes well, don’t be surprised if he gets a call-up at some point.
Geekie not taking anything for granted in second year [Tampa Bay Lightning]
We’ve all penciled Geekie into the opening night roster, but the 21-year-old isn’t taking that for granted as he enters his second year in the organization.
Tampa Bay Lightning Season Preview [Daily FaceOff]
Pretty straightforward preview. The regular season should be good, but the Lightning have to prove that they can beat the Panthers or Leafs in the playoffs.
New York Islanders inducting Pat LaFontaine into their hall of Fame [New York Islanders]
He had 566 points in 530 games for them before heading off to Buffalo. Good to see him get recognized.
Zdeno Chara returns to the Boston Bruins [Boston Bruins]
In between running marathons, Big Z is going to serve as the Bruins’ Hockey Operations Advisor and Mentor.
Ten players poised to breakout in 2025-26 [The Score]
It’s a good list. Not a great list (needs more Goncalves).
John Tortorella opens up about Flyers firing [Broad Street Hockey]
Torts still wants to coach, but is there a place for him in today’s NHL?
There are some familiar names on the roster for tonight’s game.
The game starts at 7:00 PM and will be broadcast over the air on Scripps.
