Chychrun underwent knee surgery in August and his season appeared to be in jeopardy. However, Chychrun is an athletic freak and is already close to getting back on the ice and it looks like he will return at some point this season. The second-year defenseman remains without a timetable for his return, but it’s great news that he is already ahead of schedule.
Wilson will miss the first four games of the regular season for boarding the Blues’ Sam Blais. This is not the ideal start to the season for the bruising winger, but it will likely give the Capitals a chance to take an extended look at Alex Chiasson.
McIlrath, 25, was acquired from the Panthers as a part of the Thomas Vanek trade and picked up four assists in 21 games with Grand Rapids (AHL) and another five assists in 19 playoff games in the Griffins Calder Cup run. McIlrath’s stock has fallen a long way since being drafted No.10 overall in 2010, but offers organizational depth and toughness at the AHL level.
After being selected in the expansion draft yesterday, it was rumoured that van Riemsdyk could be on the move before Friday’s draft and Carolina is where he ends up. The 25-year right shot defenseman was limited to 58 games in 2016-17, but set a career-high with 16 points (5G / 11A). TVR is just scratching the surface offensively and should be a key member of an already talented Hurricanes’ blueline.
McIlrath, 24, was the 10th overall pick in 2010 and has had a tough time elevating his game to the NHL-level. The 6-foot-5, 220 lbs. defenseman has been waived a few times this season and will likely report to Grand Rapids (AHL). McIlrath has one goal and three assists in 22 AHL games this season and five points (3G / 2A) in 43 career NHL games.
McIlrath last played on January 18th and has only appeared in five games with the Panthers this season. McIlrath heads to Springfield, where he has one goal and one assist in six games this season.
