In today’s NHL rumors rundown, all signs point to William Nylander playing for the Toronto Maple Leafs in Game 4. Meanwhile, what was said to Thatcher Demko after learning of his injury status for this year’s playoffs? Brendan Dillion suffered a serious injury to his hand, and the interviews for the next head coach of the Ottawa Senators are underway. Finally, are the Buffalo Sabres looking for help at center, after trading a center away at the NHL Trade Deadline?
William Nylander Likely to Play Game 4
Maple Leafs head coach Sheldon Keefe says the Leafs are “preparing for” William Nylander to play in Game 4. After missing the first three games but brushing off injury concerns when speaking with reporters on Friday, Nylander hinted he was ready to go. As a result, there will be a few line changes on the Leafs’ roster.
David Alter noted that Nick Robertson was a bit late getting to the ice for the optional skate because he was having a meeting about his line tonight with David Kampf and Ryan Reaves.
It also looks like TJ Brodie will slot in on the Leafs blue line. Bobby McMann (lower body) is progressing well and should skate “soon,” said Keefe.
Tocchet Had to Reassure an Emotional Thatcher Demko
Going out with a fluke injury, Thatcher Demko was understandably emotional when he learned that his injury situation was serious enough that he wasn’t returning at any point during the series with the Nashville Predators. It took a conversation with head coach Rick Tocchet to calm down Demko, who was in tears. Tocchet told the goaltender, “Your season isn’t over. We’re going to need you, because we’re still going to be playing when you’re ready again.”
Related: NHL Projected Lineups, Starting Goalies, Injuries, Updates
The Canucks won Game 3 versus the Predators on the back of an incredible performance by Casey DeSmith.
Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reports that the best way to describe Demko’s injury is that it’s a unique one. The Canucks aren’t sure how long he’ll be away and they’re not sure. They are hopeful that it’s not as bad as they initially thought and don’t want to put any timeframe on it.
Brendan Dillon’s Status Unclear
During a scrum last night in the Winnipeg Jets versus Colorado Avalanche game, it appears Brendan Dillon’s hand was sliced open. The injury looked severe. Head coach Rick Bowness says Dillon was still being…
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