MARYLAND HEIGHTS, Mo. — St. Louis Blues defenseman Philip Broberg is projected to be sidelined for approximately four to six weeks due to a right leg injury.
Coach Drew Bannister provided this update on Broberg’s condition during a news briefing on Monday, describing it as a lower-body injury. Bannister expressed relief regarding the prognosis, particularly given the severity of the injury as it first appeared.
“It could have been a lot worse,” he stated following the team’s practice session. “I’m glad that he’s not facing a more significant setback. He had been performing at a high level, and now it’s important to focus on getting him back onto the ice and into game shape. This process will take some time, but I believe the player himself is feeling optimistic about the recovery.”
Broberg sustained the injury when his right leg was caught in an awkward position during a collision with Toronto forward Mitch Marner in the second period of Saturday’s game. The 23-year-old was seen grasping his leg in pain and required assistance to leave the ice.
Unfortunately for the Blues, Broberg is not the only player dealing with injuries at this time. The roster also currently lacks forwards Robert Thomas, Kasperi Kapanen, and Mathieu Joseph, in addition to defensemen Nick Leddy and Torey Krug.
Thomas is facing a broken ankle, whereas Krug’s situation is more severe, as he is anticipated to miss the entire season following ankle surgery.
Bannister acknowledged the team’s challenges, stating, “The players have done remarkably well in adjusting to these circumstances. Expecting one individual to step into Broberg’s or Robby’s role isn’t realistic. Teamwork is essential, and every player must contribute toward our common goals and execute the game plan.”
Scott Perunovich is expected to fill in for Broberg in the lineup as the Blues currently hold a record of 6-6-0 after 12 games. Broberg was notably one of the top scorers on the team, contributing nine points since signing an offer sheet as a restricted free agent earlier in the summer.
“Prune is stepping into a significant opportunity, and we are going to depend on our players to deliver solid performances during this time,” Bannister remarked. “The active group is capable of achieving success while our injured players are on the sidelines. This is a chance for us to ensure that we are committed to our strategy, as we cannot lean solely on a couple of players to fill the gap. Every member of the team needs to contribute and work towards our objectives.”