On the Carolina Hurricanes …
Terrell Williams of NHL.com: Forward Bryan Bickell was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis.
“First and foremost, the most important thing is for Bryan to take care of himself and our thoughts are with him and his family,” said Francis. “He will need to take some time to rest in the immediate future, and we will support him as he takes the necessary steps for his health. We ask that his privacy be respected during the process.”
“Since the 2015 playoffs, I’ve been struggling to understand what was going on with my body. Again during the past few weeks, it felt like something wasn’t right,” said Bickell. “Obviously this is a bit of shock for my family and me, but I am hopeful I will be able to return to the ice and continue playing the game that I love.”
Ken Preston: The Hurricanes put defenseman Justin Faulk on the IR with an upper-body injury.
On the Colorado Avalanche …
Adrian Dater: Sources saying Matt Duchene was pulled from the game by NHL concussion spotters.
On the Detroit Red Wings …
Ansar Khan: Tomas Jurco, who had back surgery in August, had a setback last week and his timetable has been moved back a week. He is still a few weeks away from returning to the lineup.
On the Arizona Coyotes …
Craig Morgan: Martin Hanzal skated on their practice ice yesterday. He’s been out for the past four games. Mike Smith on was on the ice and was taking shots from Jon Elkin.
Craig Morgan: Defenseman Michael Stone could play tonight. Hanzal won’t play.
On the Philadelphia Flyers …
Sam Carchidi: Defenseman Andrew MacDonald will resume skating on Monday. GM Ron Hextall said he won’t be sent the AHL when he’s ready to return.
On the Dallas Stars …
Mike Heika: Jason Spezza and Patrick Sharp could play on Sunday.
On the Buffalo Sabres …
Buffalo Sabres: Forward Jack Eichel skated for 45 minutes yesterday, and was on the ice for 25 minutes on Thursday.
John Vogl of the Buffalo News: Tyler Ennis had double sports hernia surgery and could be out for two months.
