The Coyotes announced the other day that Alex Galchenyuk was 'week to week' with his lower body injury (probably a groin injury) and that he would miss the season opening next Thursday against the Dallas Stars.
We also suspected that it would be a longshot for Christian Dvorak and Jacob Chychrun to play in that game, and GM John Chayka confirmed as much to Craig Morgan yesterday.
I asked if Galchenyuk had a surgical procedure but Chayka declined comment. On Chychrun/Dvorak, he said it'd be “a longshot” for either to play in the season opener. Chayka: “They would have to get back to team practices.” Neither joined the team on its two-game Canadian trip.
While this is certainly not a great development, it's important to note that these are most likely not long term injuries, and that in the long run, it may even be beneficial to get some extended looks at players who were maybe not expected to make the team.
For instance, Dylan Strome now has a very good shot at solidifying a lineup spot and getting top minutes and power play time. Sure, it's better if he earns them and forces his way onto the team, but he's also at the point where they just need to play him and hope he does OK.
Then there is Clayton Keller, he has played wing, but if needed the team can move him to centre. If it works out, well a player who is potentially a star just got much more valuable.
On defense Oesterle was looking to be the odd man out because other guys competing for his spot are more physical and more right handed, two things the Coyotes lack on their blueline.
But Oesterle is a very good bottom pairing player and he's got upside. I think the Coyotes will soon learn that he is a necessity.
You can also expect bigger roles to start the year for players like Hinostroza and Fischer, and this too could be a great development.
I don't want to be ridiculsous and take the position that these injuries are a good thing, I'm just saying that they do allow for some in-season opportunities for other players and that that really can help the team long-term.
So far the Coyotes are 3-2 in the pre-season, and they play the Oilers tonight.
Myself, I am heading out on holidays, so I'll see you back here Monday.
Washington Capitals Blogger • 
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