At Ice Den Scottsdale after practice today, Arizona Coyotes head coach André Tourigny provided updates on three players who have suffered injuries.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Center Jack McBain (lower body) was seen on the ice for the first time since being ruled out week-to-week on Nov. 11.
Defenseman Sean Durzi (lower body) did have a light skating session, but was not a participant in the practice.
As for forward Nick Schmaltz (upper body), Tourigny said his status is “a game-time decision.”
It is unknown when Schmaltz was hurt, though there is a chance he may suit up against the San Jose Sharks tomorrow night.
If Schmaltz is out for an extended period of time, the Coyotes’ first line will be reconstructed due and may feature a new face.
Arizona Coyotes Injury Update, according to head coach André Tourigny ahead of game vs. San Jose Sharks tomorrow night. #Yotes #SJSharks
– D Sean Durzi (lower body): "not ready"
– F Nick Schmaltz (upper body): game-time decision
-C Jack McBain (lower body): game-time decision pic.twitter.com/eHrSBNZ1LX— Alec Cipollini (@AlecCipollini) December 14, 2023
Taking Schmaltz’s place on the first line power play unit at practice, however, Coyotes leading scorer Michael Carcone took part in 5-on-4 drills. This season, Carcone has 14 goals and possesses a shooting percentage of 35%.
When asked about if Carcone can handle an elevated role in the NHL, Tourigny says there are aspects of his game that he likes, but other things that he has to work on to earn more opportunities.
“He (Carcone) knows what he has to do to improve his ice-time,” Tourigny said. “He brings the effort, he will play on the power play tomorrow. There are things he knows he is aware of to keep getting better. I appreciate his willingness to do so.”
Arizona Coyotes F Michael Carcone can be seen on the first line power-play unit. Nick Schmaltz and Sean Durzi are both not on the ice. News coming soon. #Yotes #NHL pic.twitter.com/ytyoX65az1
— Alec Cipollini (@AlecCipollini) December 14, 2023
Additionally, defenseman J.J. Moser was at the point during these game simulations, showing that he may be at the backend during a man advantage until Durzi is ready to return.
Last game against the Pittsburgh Penguins, Moser and Matt Dumba rotated on the No. 1 PP unit.
At Mullett Arena, the Coyotes begin a three-game homestand against the Sharks tomorrow night at 7 p.m. MST.
*Get the BEST Phoenix sports insider information, exclusive content, and access to our seasonal magazines! SIGN UP HERE to unlock our premium content!*
Alec Cipollini is a reporter of the Arizona Coyotes and Cardinals for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account @AlecCipollini
