Heinen was one of four Ducks' players that was added to the COVID-19 protocol list on Tuesday, putting Wednesday's game in jeopardy. With Heinen likely unavailable vs. the Wild, look for Max Comtois to draw back into the lineup.

Nieto has been filling in for Rudolfs Balcers on the Sharks' second line but both are questionable to play on Saturday. Antti Suomela will make his season debut regardless of whether or not Nieto plays, so someone will have to come out if he's in.

The Penguins said that Malkin is still being evaluated and will not play on Thursday. Head coach Mike Sullivan said that he hopes to have more information on Malkin in the next day or so, so it sounds like he could miss some time.

Bemstrom was hurt in Wednesday's practice and was placed on IR on Thursday, meaning he'll miss at least seven days. Mikhail Grigorenko will replace him in the Blue Jackets' bottom-6.

Malkin's injury comes on the heels of Teddy Blueger being sidelined "longer-term," so the Penguins centre depth will be put to the test if Malkin can't go Thursday. Luckily, Jared McCann, who is a natural centre but has played some wing this season, could be back in New Jersey.

Ouellet was recalled from Laval (AHL) and will make his season debut on Monday. Ouellet will replace Victor Mete, who was replacing Ben Chiarot (hand) for the last two games.