Letang left Monday’s practice with what was described as a nagging lower-body injury. Letang did not take part in Tuesday’s optional morning skate and is officially listed as a game-time decision. If Letang can’t play, look for Juuso Riikola to draw back into the lineup.
van Riemsdyk had five shots on goal and a minus-1 rating while averaging 16:53 TOI/GM in the first three games of the season. The Hurricanes will get Haydn Fleury his first game of the season, replacing van Riemsdyk in the lineup vs. the Canucks.
Rust has become a valuable middle-6 winger for the Penguins, scoring 13 goals with 25 assists (38 points) in 69 games this past season. Rust occasionally sees time on a line with Evgeni Malkin but is equally effective in a checking-line role. He grades out as the No.52 ranked RW in hockey according to Corsica Player Ratings.
The Senators did not give a reason for Karlsson not travelling with the team but you have to assume it is related to the recent death of his son. The heartbreaking loss will keep the Senators’ star out for at least one more contest.
Karlsson has missed the last two games following the death of his son. Despite the tragedy, Karlsson wants to play tonight against the Hurricanes, so he will replace Marian Gaborik as the Senators go with 11 forwards and seven defensemen. Karlsson has been hot as of late, picking up 20 points (3G / 17A) in his last 17 games.
