Blues Forward Dylan Holloway Expected Back in Lineup After Ankle Injury
St. Louis Blues forward Dylan Holloway is likely to return to the ice when the team hosts the Kraken on Thursday, marking a significant boost as they emerge from the Olympic break. Holloway has been sidelined for 23 of the last 24 games due to a right high ankle sprain suffered in December. He briefly returned to play against the Edmonton Oilers on January 18th but re-aggravated the injury, admitting he may have come back too soon. Holloway has recorded 17 points (eight goals, nine assists) in 34 games this season. Meanwhile, Robert Thomas is progressing from a right leg procedure but his status for Thursday remains uncertain.
Blues Forward Dylan Holloway Nears Return, Robert Thomas Progresses
Dylan Holloway is poised to rejoin the St. Louis Blues lineup, potentially as early as Thursday’s game against the Seattle Kraken. The forward has been sidelined for a significant stretch due to a right high ankle sprain, initially sustained during a practice session on December 14th.
Holloway Admits Rushing Return Earlier This Season
Holloway briefly returned to action on January 18th against the Edmonton Oilers, but quickly found himself back on the injured list after just one game. He candidly admitted he may have pushed his recovery too quickly. “I feel much better,” Holloway stated. “Obviously it’s been tough being out. It [stinks]. It’s hard mentally, but I’m definitely feeling a lot better than I did before I tried to play the last time.”
Pro Tip: Patience is paramount in injury recovery. Athletes often face pressure to return to play, but a premature comeback can lead to re-injury and a prolonged absence. Prioritizing full healing is crucial for long-term performance.
Currently, Holloway has accumulated 17 points (eight goals and nine assists) in 34 games played this season. His return provides a much-needed boost to the Blues’ offensive capabilities.
Robert Thomas Continues Recovery
Robert Thomas is similarly making progress in his recovery from a right leg procedure, which was announced on January 31st. He participated in practice for the second consecutive time, signaling positive steps toward his return. However, his status for Thursday’s game remains uncertain.
Blues coach Jim Montgomery offered an update, stating, “I just talked to him at the end [of practice]. Said he felt good. It’s a good step, but it’s not all the way there yet.”
The Trend of Ankle Injuries in the NHL
Ankle injuries, like the one Holloway suffered, are unfortunately common in the National Hockey League. The high-impact nature of the sport, combined with the quick changes in direction and physical play, puts players at risk. A study published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine found that ankle sprains account for approximately 10-15% of all NHL injuries annually.
Several factors contribute to this prevalence, including skate design, ice conditions, and the frequency of collisions. Teams are increasingly investing in preventative measures, such as specialized training programs and ankle bracing, to mitigate the risk.
Did you know? The NHL has seen a slight increase in lower-body injuries, including ankle sprains, in recent seasons, potentially linked to the increased speed and physicality of the game.
Holloway’s Journey: From Oilers Draft Pick to Blues Contributor
Holloway’s path to the Blues is noteworthy. Originally drafted by the Edmonton Oilers in the first round of the 2020 NHL Entry Draft, he ultimately signed an offer sheet with St. Louis after Edmonton declined to match. This situation highlights the complexities of player contracts and the strategic use of offer sheets by teams seeking to acquire talent.
The Blues tendered a two-year, $4.58 million deal, which the Oilers did not match, allowing Holloway to join St. Louis and providing Edmonton with a compensatory third-round draft pick.
FAQ
Q: When is Dylan Holloway expected to return to the Blues lineup?
A: He is likely to return when the Blues host the Kraken on Thursday.
Q: What was the nature of Dylan Holloway’s injury?
A: He suffered a right high ankle sprain.
Q: Is Robert Thomas expected to play on Thursday?
A: His status is currently to be determined, but he is progressing well in his recovery.
Q: What is an offer sheet in the NHL?
A: An offer sheet allows a team to sign a restricted free agent from another team, potentially forcing the original team to match the offer or lose the player.
Stay tuned to 247sports.latest for further updates on Holloway and Thomas’s progress, as well as comprehensive coverage of the St. Louis Blues. Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the Blues’ season in the comments below!