Hornqvist was hurt on Friday and missed Saturday’s game and it looks like he could miss a couple of weeks. Originally the Penguins said it wasn’t a serious injury, but it is likely going to cost him at least the next three games.
Hornqvist left Saturday’s game vs. the Maple Leafs after taking a puck to the face and is questionable for tonight’s game vs. Colorado. Hornqvist was on the ice for the Penguins morning skate, skating on the third line so it looks likely that he will play tonight.
Hornqvist missed the first three games of the season, but skated on the third line and took part on the second PP unit in Monday’s practice. This is a big step for the Penguins’ winger, who would likely replace Conor Sheary in the lineup tomorrow if he were able to play.
Hornqvist continues to rehab his hand that underwent surgery in the summer. Originally the Penguins were hopeful that he would be ready for the start of the season, but he has yet to return to practice at this time. He’ll start the year on IR, which is not ideal for a player with an injury riddled past.
Hornqvist has missed the last five games with a concussion, but says he is symptom-free and will be a game-time decision tonight. Hornqvist took part in the morning skate, so expect him to be in the lineup barring a setback this afternoon. He has 17 goals and 20 assists (37 points) in 58 games this season.
The Penguins called Hornqvist day-to-day on Wednesday, but he was on the ice for an optional morning skate and is now a game-time decision for tonight’s game. The Penguins could elect to hold him out and get him some rest over the All-Star break and if he sits, Carter Rowney will make his NHL debut.
Hornqvist is day-to-day with a lower-body injury, which suggests that he won’t play in the final game before the All-Star break on Thursday. Monitor his status prior to tomorrow’s game in Boston. The Penguins will already be without Evgeni Malkin, so missing Hornqvist as well would be a huge blow.