Kotkaniemi missed three games while in COVID-19 protocol but will play Saturday in Minnesota. Kotkaniemi will replace Steven Lorentz and skate on the fourth line with Derek Stepan and Jordan Martinook.
Slavin was called up from Rockford (AHL) after the All-Star break and will play in his 11th career NHL game on Wednesday. The 23-year-old forward will replace Brett Connolly in the lineup and has one assist in his first 10 games.
Robinson suffered an MCL sprain in his right knee on January 31st and will miss roughly six weeks. Brendan Gaunce was recalled from the AHL and will replace Robinson in the lineup on Tuesday. Cole Sillinger will take on a PK role in his absence.
Kotkaniemi likely will not be available for Monday's game in Toronto after testing positive for COVID-19 on Sunday. It's unclear who will replace him in the lineup, with the only reserve forward being Teuvo Teravainen, who is a game-time decision. The Hurricanes may have to call up Josh Leivo from the AHL if Teravainen can't play.
Orlov served his two-game suspension for kneeing Nikolaj Ehlers and is set to play Monday vs. the Golden Knights. Orlov will be back on the second pairing with Justin Schultz and the second power-play unit.
Smith suffered an upper-body injury on Wednesday and will not be available for Saturday's game vs. the Hurricanes. Expect a defenseman to be recalled from the taxi squad to replace Smith.
