The Ottawa Senators made a big move at the close by adding defenseman Jakob Chychrun to their roster, but his season could end sooner than expected due to injury.
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The former Arizona Coyotes will miss “a couple of weeks” of activity beginning with Saturday night’s game against the New Jersey Devils, head coach DJ Smith confirmed in a news conference.
“That’s unfortunate,” Smith said. With [Thomas Chabot], he did a great job. He moved the puck well for us and he was physical. It’s a big loss for us. We’ve had to deal with so many of those injuries this season.”
Chychrun was forced to retire to the locker room in the third period of Thursday’s game against the Tampa Bay Lightning after falling near the boards. Tackled by Michael Eyssimont, the defender seems to have twisted his right leg.
In his case, there have been many injuries in recent years. His season didn’t start until November 21 due to a wrist problem.
The “Sens” are still fighting for a place in the playoffs, but every win will be important. Chychrun won’t be able to help, although his post with his new team has been criticized. The attacking full-back has only five points in 12 games.
The 24-year-old American was acquired at a heavy price on March 1, with senators giving the Coyotes conditional first- and second-round picks, in addition to a second-round pick in 2026. He had 28 points in 36 parties before arriving in Ottawa.