While teams prepare for training camp in the week or so, the Chicago Blackhawks will be forced to do so down an important piece, as winger Alex Nylander is reportedly in jeopardy of missing the entire 2020-21 season.
The Athletic's Mark Lazarus is reporting that Nylander, 22, suffered a torn meniscus in his left knee, sidelining the slick skating Swede for approximately four-to-six months.
This is a big blow for a Hawks team who is hoping to take a big leap forward this season after qualifying for the playoffs in 2019-20, despite entering the qualifiers as a resounding underdog.
Nylander was acquired by the Hawks in a deal with the Buffalo Sabres last summer in which the Hawks sent the Sabres promising defensive prospect Henri Jokiharju.
In 65 contests with the Hawks last season, Nylander amassed 10 goals and 26 points, setting career highs in both goals and assists.
Alex is the younger brother of Maple Leafs sniper William Nylander.
-
