The Detroit Red Wings entered Thursday's practice session with a noticeably thin roster as key players, forward Elmer Söderblom and defenseman Erik Gustafsson, were both sidelined due to injuries sustained during Tuesday's match against the Washington Capitals. The situation has raised concerns for the coaching staff as the team prepares for a challenging road trip, beginning with a game against the Vegas Golden Knights.
Coach Todd McLellan described both Söderblom and Gustafsson as being listed as 'day-to-day,' expressing that their conditions are still under evaluation. 'He’s still being evaluated,' McLellan noted concerning Gustafsson, hinting at the possibility of a longer-term injury. 'Call it day-to-day. There’s potential for a longer-term injury, but we need some results.'
Söderblom, who was called up from the minors on January 20 and made his NHL debut a day later, has been carving out a significant role on the team, accumulating three goals and six assists over 22 games thus far this season. His presence has been particularly impactful; teammates have noted his progression and confidence on the ice. Dylan Larkin commented on Söderblom’s growth, stating, 'He’s brought a nice element. We’re hoping he’s going to be all right. He’s a big part of our team. It says a lot about a young player that has had some ups and downs in his career. Probably came in and has had a bigger impact than we all expected.'
With Söderblom absent, Michael Rasmussen stepped in to fill his role during practice, skating on the top line alongside Larkin and Lucas Raymond. Meanwhile, Gustafsson’s injury has left a gap on the third defensive pairing and the second power-play unit. The 28-year-old defenseman has recorded eighteen points but holds a minus-19 rating over this season's 60 games, a statistic that emphasizes the need for both stability and performance from the defensive unit.
In a bid to manage the injury situation, Jeff Petry returned to practice for the Red Wings, marking his first full participation since being sidelined due to an injury that kept him out since January 2. McLellan mentioned, 'Petey is coming. This was his true first real heavy-hard practice that he’s had. He’s had a couple light ones with the team. He’s getting close.'
However, McLellan confirmed that while Petry will accompany the team on their upcoming trip, he is not expected to play against the Golden Knights on Saturday. The coaching staff will reassess his status following that opening game on the road trip.
The Red Wings face a tough schedule in the next few days, playing the Golden Knights on March 22, followed by games against the Utah Hockey Club on March 24 and the Colorado Avalanche on March 25. Team management is considering the possibility of making one or two call-ups to ensure they have adequate coverage as they head out on this demanding trip.
As the injury news unfolds, the focus remains on Söderblom and Gustafsson, whose contributions will be crucial for the Red Wings and their playoff aspirations. Coach McLellan and the team will continue to monitor their conditions closely, seeking the best outcomes as the pivotal games approach.
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