Miller, Rakell Placed on Injured Reserve
The Anaheim Ducks’ injury woes continue as they will be without forward Rickard Rakell and goaltender Ryan Miller for the foreseeable future. They join a crowded injured reserve that already includes the likes of Cam Fowler, Corey Perry, and Patrick Eaves.
Miller reportedly suffered a sprained MCL in a 6-5 win over the Devils on Sunday. He is expected to miss approximately six weeks but will be re-evaluated in two.
In a corresponding move, the Ducks claimed goaltender Chad Johnson off waivers from the Blues. A career backup, Johnson has struggled this season, posting a 2-6-0 record and .884 SV% in 10 appearances for St. Louis. The nine-year veteran will backup John Gibson so long as Miller remains sidelined.
Rakell has not played since suffering a sprained ankle in a game against the Blackhawks on December 5th and remains without a timetable for his return. The 25-year-old winger has played well atop the Ducks’ lineup but has been limited by a 5.7 SH%. He has five goals and 15 assists in 30 games this season. His absence gives Pontus Aberg and the recently-acquired Daniel Sprong an opportunity to skate with Ryan Getzlaf on the first line.