NHL Playoff Injuries Hit Sabres, Avalanche and Stars Hard

The 2026 NHL playoffs are in full swing, but injuries are already impacting several contenders. Buffalo Sabres forward Josh Norris sat out their most recent game and remains day-to-day, adding to the team’s challenges in a critical series.[1][2] Over in Colorado, Avalanche defenseman Josh Manson exited his last game with an upper-body issue, raising questions about the blue line depth. Meanwhile, Dallas Stars star Roope Hintz is progressing but ruled out for Game 4 and unlikely for Game 5, testing their forward group against the Wild.

These setbacks come at a pivotal time, with series shifting to road games and momentum on the line. Teams are leaning on depth players and monitoring recoveries closely amid the high stakes of postseason play.

Buffalo Sabres grapple with Josh Norris absence

Josh Norris missed the Sabres’ latest matchup and coach Lindy Ruff has him listed as day-to-day with an undisclosed issue. The forward, who joined Buffalo after his time in Ottawa, played through the early games but felt off after a hit into the boards. Ruff noted, “We don’t know exactly what it is. Just not feeling right and unable to play.”[1]

Norris’ history includes multiple shoulder injuries, but this appears playoff-related wear. The Sabres plugged in Noah Ostlund for Game 3 against the Bruins, who responded with a goal and assist in his debut. Buffalo’s injury crisis this season has tested their depth repeatedly, from goalie Alex Lyon potentially missing playoff starts to other forward ailments.

The team hopes for Norris’ quick return, as his 23 points post-earlier absence showed his value. Without him, lines reshuffle, putting pressure on centers like Tage Thompson. Ruff emphasized caution, avoiding risks in a tight series.

Fan frustration mounts amid the wellness challenges, but Ostlund’s emergence offers optimism. If Norris returns for Game 4, it could stabilize the third line versus Boston’s physicality.

Long-term, Buffalo must manage load to sustain playoff runs. Their regular-season resilience amid injuries bodes well, but Norris’ status remains the key watch.

Colorado Avalanche blue line tested by Josh Manson injury

Defenseman Josh Manson left the Avalanche’s last game early with an upper-body injury, missing shifts late. This follows a season where Colorado rarely had full health, as Manson recalled post-practice: “I mean, I don’t think we’ve been fully healthy, maybe one time.”[3]

Manson’s physical style earned him a Gordie Howe hat trick earlier, honoring family legacy in an 8-2 rout. Now, with playoffs underway versus the Kings, his availability looms large. He missed the regular-season finale stretch but was expected back for Game 1.

Partners like Cale Makar have dealt with upper-body woes too, forcing recalls and pairings tweaks. Depth defensemen like Jack Ahcan filled in during absences.

Avalanche coach Jared Bednar prioritizes playoff readiness over regular-season risks. Manson’s 31 points and hits/blocked shots make him vital for shutdown roles.

Recovery updates point to optimism, but upper-body ailments demand monitoring. Colorado’s full-roster practice pre-playoffs signals positive momentum.

Dallas Stars monitor Roope Hintz recovery timeline

Roope Hintz resumed skating Wednesday but remains sidelined for Game 4, with Game 5 highly unlikely per reports. The Stars want him practicing with the main group before action. Lia Assimakopoulos noted, “They’d like to get him skating with the main group before he returns to game action.”

Hintz’s absence hurts versus Minnesota Wild, where Dallas needs scoring punch. The forward didn’t travel for Games 3-4, aligning with their cautious approach.[https://nhlinsight.com/blog/roope-hintz-does-not-travel-with-dallas-stars-for-games-3-and-4/]

Team depth faces strain, compounded by offseason-like issues like Jordan Kyrou’s knee procedure—though he’s training camp-ready. Stars captain Jamie Benn and Tyler Seguin have battled injuries too.

Coaches emphasize matchups without Hintz, leaning on Miro Heiskanen post-recovery. His return bolsters the blue line.

Playoff success hinges on forward health; Hintz’s speed is irreplaceable. Dallas eyes a deep run, but timeline clarity awaits.

These injuries underscore playoff volatility, where one tweak alters series. Sabres, Avalanche and Stars prioritize recoveries while adapting lineups. Depth will decide early rounds—what it means for Cup contention remains unfolding, but resilience defines champions. Expect updates as series progress into late April.