Kane out 3 weeks … Poni to return Thursday, Mitchell Close … Phanuef could return Saturday … Horcoff out 8 weeks?

Mark Easson

14 years ago

Tim Sassone of the Daily Herald: Patrick Kane will be out the Chicago Blackhawks lineup for about 3 weeks with a sprained ankle. “We’re going to leave it as a lower body (injury), but I think you can speculate what it is. Certainly that’s the extent of it and he’s progressing right now.”

Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: If the Stars decide to move Brad Richards at the trade deadline “it’s only because (1) they weren’t able to sign him to an extension and (2) they’re offered the kind of deal that sets them up “for the next five years.” The Sharks continue to look for a top 4 defenseman. If Devils coach John MacLean can’t find a way to get Ilya Kovalchuk scoring (5 goals in 26 games), they should find someone who can (my fantasy team would appreciate this as well).

Joanne Ireland of the Edmonton Journal: Oilers center Shawn Horcoff felt his knee ‘pop’ after colliding with Corey Perry. Coach Tom Renney guesses he could be out 8 weeks. Horcoff will have an MRI done today, he does have a damaged MCL. They could call up one of Linus Omark, Liam Reddox or Ryan O’Marra.

Helene Elliott via twitter: Alexei Ponikarovsky (fractured finger) said he’ll be ready to go on Thursday vs. the Flames.

Rich Hammond of LA Kings Insider: LA Kings defenseman Willie Mitchell is getting closer to returning, as he practiced yesterday without his wrist brace. Mitchell will be examined on Thursday and will look to get clearance. Ponikarovsky was pronounced ready to return by Terry Murray and will be on the left side of Michal Handzus and Wayne Simmons.

James Mirtle via twitter: Dion Phaneuf practiced with the Maple Leafs yesterday and could return on Saturday for their game against the Canadiens.

Jimmy Murphy via twitter: Bruins defenseman Mark Stuart has an upper body injury, more will be known today.