Update: Duchene is considered day-to-day with “concussion-like symptoms.” The Avalanche have recalled forward A.J. Greer from the San Antonio Rampage. The 19-year-old, who is leading all AHL rookies in scoring with 14 points in 13 games, is expected to make his NHL debut on Sunday against the Bruins.
After looking lackluster to start the month of November, the Colorado Avalanche came alive with a complete effort on Friday, beating the Winnipeg Jets in overtime thanks to an own goal. Dictating play the entire way, the contest wasn’t as close as the 3-2 score suggests. Though it took a lucky bounce to end it, the Avalanche were not quite as fortunate on the injury front.
During the second period of the tilt, Matt Duchene took a hit up high from Jets defenseman Jacob Trouba, who was playing in his first game of the season after rescinding his trade request and inking a two-year deal. The headshot kept Duchene out of the remainder of the contest, and there has yet to be any word on if it will keep him out any longer.
“I’m hoping that he’s going to be back,” said Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar after the game, who added that he had yet to speak to the training staff. “But again, I have to talk to them and see what the plan is. He’s played really well for us. He’s been the driving force to the bulk of our offense this season.”
Through 13 games, Duchene has paced the Avalanche with six goals and 11 points. The 25-year-old pivot was held off the scoresheet on Friday, finishing the contest with 14:09 of ice time through two periods.
With Blake Comeau currently on the shelf with a groin injury, the Avalanche are currently without an extra forward to throw into the lineup should Duchene be forced to miss time. There are several options currently playing with the San Antonio Rampage, both at center and wing, including J.T. Compher, A.J. Greer, Gabriel Bourque and Rocco Grimaldi.
The Avalanche will be back in action Sunday against the Boston Bruins, so more clarity will likely come before then.