The Seattle Kraken have been dealt a significant blow to their defensive corps, with key defenseman Brandon Montour set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines. The team confirmed that Montour has undergone surgery on his hand and will be out of action for an extended period.
Details of the Injury and Timeline
The 31-year-old blueliner has been placed on injured reserve, a move that officially rules him out for at least several weeks. Montour is not expected to return to the ice for approximately four weeks, with a projected return window set for mid-to-late January. His recovery progress will determine the exact date.
The injury occurred during a game against the Colorado Avalanche, forcing Montour to leave the contest prematurely. He has subsequently missed the Kraken's last three matches. Despite his absence, the team managed to secure a recent victory against the Anaheim Ducks.
Impact on the Seattle Kraken Lineup
Losing Montour is a major setback for a Seattle squad that has battled inconsistency this season. He was averaging nearly 22 minutes of ice time per game, the second-highest total on the team, highlighting his crucial role. Before the injury, Montour had contributed six goals and ten assists across 27 games, offering a valuable two-way presence.
His ability to contribute offensively while handling heavy defensive responsibilities made him a pivotal part of the Kraken's strategy. The team now faces the challenge of reshuffling their defensive pairings and finding a way to compensate for his absence.
What's Next for the Kraken?
The situation will be closely monitored as part of regular NHL injury updates. The Kraken's coaching staff must now find solutions to keep the team competitive without one of their top-minute defenders. This injury tests the squad's depth and will require others to step up into larger roles during a critical part of the season.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how the team adapts its gameplay and whether they can maintain their defensive solidity while awaiting Montour's return in the new year.
