Ekman-Larsson left Saturday’s game in New Jersey early, but is fine and will play tonight in Philadelphia. O.E.L was hurt after absorbing a high-hit but there are no lingering effects. The 26-year-old has recorded six points (1G / 5A) in 11 games this season.
Benning was a healthy scratch on Saturday but was expected to draw back into the lineup tonight vs. the Hurricanes. However, he is under the weather so Yohan Auvitu will remain in the lineup and Kris Russell will likely see power-play time on the second unit.
Ekman-Larsson was banged up during training camp, but he is ready to go for first game of the season. Ekman-Larsson is coming off of a rough season by his standards, but remains one of the top-15 fantasy defensemen around.
Ekman-Larsson missed time in training camp due to a knee injury, but was a full participant in Sunday’s practice and head coach Rick Tocchet said he’s hopeful that his star defenseman will be in the lineup on Thursday. Ekman-Larsson is coming off of the worst seasons of his career and that’s saying a lot considering he still managed to rack up 12 goals and 27 assists (39 points). O.E.L is one of the few locks for double-digit goals and 20-plus assists on the blueline.
McCabe is dealing with a sore shoulder and his status for the season opener is in doubt. The 23-year-old will likely be replaced by Matt Tennyson to start the season but will take his spot back as soon as he’s healthy. McCabe had 20 points (3G / 17A) in 76 games last season.
Ekman-Larsson exited Sunday’s preseason game with a knee injury, but head coach Rick Tocchet said his star defenseman could be back on the ice tomorrow. This is huge news for the Coyotes, who could ill-afford to lose Edman-Larson with Jakob Chychrun already out for an extended period of time. O.E.L. doesn’t appear to be in any danger of missing the regular season opener.
Tanev continues to battle food poisoning and will be sidelined for the second game in a row when the Canucks take on the Bruins tonight. Head coach Willie Desjardins is hopeful that Granlund will play on Thursday.
Shaw has registered just five points (2G / 3A) in 43 games with the Ducks this season. During his time in the AHL, Shaw has four goals and two assists (six points) in 15 games with Springfield and San Diego.
