Get the latest updates in our NHL status report for January 2026. From Matthew Tkachuk’s recovery to Leon Draisaitl’s leave of absence, we cover all the major injury and lineup news across the league.
The hockey world is buzzing as the 2026 Winter Olympics approach, but NHL teams are currently navigating a storm of injuries and roster shifts. This week’s NHL status report brings a mix of optimism for the Florida Panthers and some tough news for the Edmonton Oilers and Philadelphia Flyers.
Major Lineup Changes & Injury Updates
| Player | Team | Status | Key Detail |
| Matthew Tkachuk | Florida Panthers | Nearing Return | Recovering from adductor/hernia surgery |
| Leon Draisaitl | Edmonton Oilers | On Leave | Family illness in Germany |
| Miro Heiskanen | Dallas Stars | Active | Returned Sunday vs. Tampa Bay |
| Erik Karlsson | Pittsburgh Penguins | IR (Practicing) | Traveling on upcoming road trip |
| Josh Norris | Buffalo Sabres | Week-to-Week | Downgraded due to slow recovery |
Florida Panthers: Big Guns Close to Returning
The defending champions are about to get a lot scarier. According to the latest NHL status report, forwards Matthew Tkachuk and Brad Marchand are “fairly close” to returning to the lineup. Tkachuk, who underwent surgery in August, has been pushing hard in practice and looks ready to contribute before he heads off to represent Team USA in Milan.
Coach Paul Maurice noted that while Tkachuk hasn’t felt 100% until recently, his response to high-intensity workouts has been excellent. Marchand, dealing with an undisclosed injury, has missed five games but isn’t expected to be out much longer. Their return is perfectly timed as Florida looks to solidify its top spot in the Atlantic Division.
Western Conference Shifts: Heiskanen Returns, Draisaitl Steps Away
Over in the West, the Dallas Stars received a boost as Miro Heiskanen rejoined the lineup on Sunday. Although the Stars dropped the game to Tampa Bay, having their workhorse defenseman back—who ranks third in the league in ice time—is vital for their defensive structure.
Conversely, the Edmonton Oilers are currently without superstar Leon Draisaitl. The team’s NHL status report confirmed he has taken a leave of absence to deal with a family illness back home in Germany. While the Oilers will certainly miss his 67 points, the organization and Captain Connor McDavid have emphasized that family comes first. He is expected to rejoin the team sometime next week.
Metro Division News: Wilson and Karlsson on the Mend
The Washington Capitals might see the return of “Tom Terrific” as early as Monday. Tom Wilson, who has been sidelined with a lower-body injury for seven games, participated in an optional skate and is a possibility against Colorado. This is great news for a Capitals team that needs his physical presence and scoring touch.
Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Penguins’ NHL status report shows a positive trend for Erik Karlsson. The veteran defenseman practiced in a non-contact jersey on Sunday. While he remains on injured reserve, the fact that he is traveling with the team for their four-game road trip suggests he could be back in game action sooner rather than late January.
Injury Woes for Flyers and Sabres
It’s not all good news in the latest NHL status report. The Philadelphia Flyers are dealing with a “not good” situation regarding Rodrigo Abols, who suffered a serious-looking lower-body injury. He’s been placed on IR alongside Rasmus Ristolainen.
The Buffalo Sabres also faced a setback with Josh Norris. Initially thought to be day-to-day, his status has been downgraded to week-to-week as his recovery from an upper-body injury has stalled. On the bright side, Sabres fans have something to look forward to: 2024 first-round pick Konsta Helenius is expected to make his highly anticipated NHL debut this Monday.
Conclusion: Navigating the Road to the Olympics
This NHL status report highlights the delicate balance teams must strike as the international break nears. While stars like Tkachuk and Heiskanen are focusing on getting healthy for both their NHL clubs and their Olympic teams, others are stepping up to fill the gaps. As the standings tighten, these roster moves will define the playoff race. Keep an eye on the NHL status report as we head into a busy February of hockey action.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When is Matthew Tkachuk expected to play his first game back?
While no exact date is set, Coach Maurice indicated he is “close” and could return as early as this week after responding well to intense skating sessions.
2. Why is Leon Draisaitl missing from the Oilers’ lineup?
Draisaitl has taken a leave of absence to travel to Germany due to a family illness. He is expected to be back with the Oilers next week.
3. Is Erik Karlsson playing on the Penguins’ current road trip?
He is traveling with the team, which is a great sign. While he is still in a non-contact jersey, his inclusion on the trip suggests a return is imminent.
4. Who is making their NHL debut for the Buffalo Sabres?
Konsta Helenius, the 14th overall pick from the 2024 NHL Draft, is expected to make his debut on Monday against the Carolina Hurricanes.
5. What is the latest on Tom Wilson’s injury?
Wilson is dealing with a lower-body injury. He has missed seven games but is considered a possibility for Monday’s game against the Colorado Avalanche.
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