Throughout his career, Jason Demers experienced deep NHL playoff runs that often concluded similarly due to mounting injuries. “You just can’t perform at 100% when the injuries pile up,” he explained. This early round, the impact of injuries is already evident in Demers’ former position, with defenses suffering from both ongoing and new setbacks. Players like Tampa Bay’s Mikhail Sergachev and Colorado’s Samuel Girard are sidelined long-term, while Carolina’s Brett Pesce was injured on Monday night.
Washington has also faced challenges, relying on minor league players to fill gaps. In the initial 10 games of the playoffs, there were 70 goals scored, showcasing a mix of strong offensive plays from top players and widespread team issues in defense. “It’s tough when you lack depth and need players who can step in and contribute,” said Ken Daneyko, a defenseman with three Stanley Cup wins, now an NHL Network analyst. “When you lose a key player like Sergachev, it becomes much harder, but the team has to find ways to rally together. If you’re short on talent, it’ll be a challenge to succeed in the playoffs.” Pesce’s injury adds to the concerns, as he hobbled off during Game 2 against the New York Islanders after a non-contact play.
Coach Rod Brind’Amour revealed the situation looked grim, presenting a major challenge to the depth of the favored Hurricanes. Tony DeAngelo would step up in his absence. “We’re waiting for updates,” Brind’Amour commented, noting there’s still time before their next game on Thursday night. “No need to rush into conclusions.” The Bruins will miss Andrew Peeke, acquired at the trade deadline, for at least two games against Toronto due to a week-to-week injury. The Capitals have been wrestling with defensive losses for weeks, ending the regular season short of Rasmus Sandin, Nick Jensen, and Ethan Bear, who is in the player assistance program. Rookie Vincent Iorio was injured in their Game 1 loss to the Rangers, leading to Lucas Johansen making his playoff debut. Johansen, along with AHL call-up Dylan McIlrath, filled in for Washington.
The team is accustomed to using players from their AHL affiliate, Hershey. “It’s about giving opportunities to others and not placing the entire burden on one player,” coach Spencer Carbery noted. “The defense and forwards need to step up to help fill the gaps.” Since early February, Tampa Bay has been adjusting without Sergachev, who is out for the first round against Florida due to a broken leg but may return if the Lightning advance. Coach Jon Cooper hinted that Max Crozier might need to step in, particularly with Nick Perbix injured.
Tampa Bay also faced difficulties last year, getting eliminated in part due to Erik Cernak’s concussion. Girard, who missed significant time during Colorado’s 2022 championship run, has been in and out of concussion protocol after an injury in April. The Avalanche lost their playoff opener to the Jets 7-6, having allowed seven goals in three of their last six games. Coach Jared Bednar mentioned that Girard is skating and showing progress, providing hope for his return as the series moves to Denver later this week.
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