The Nashville Predators announced that forward Viktor Arvidsson is sidelined for 4-6 weeks with a lower-body injury. Nashville announced the news on Sunday afternoon.
Viktor Arvidsson will miss 4-6 weeks as a result of the cross-checks he received from Robert Bortuzzo last night.
— Adam Vingan (@AdamVingan) November 24, 2019
Viktor Arvidsson Injured
Arvidsson was injured 6:08 into the first period after being cross-checked by St. Louis Blues defenceman Robert Bortuzzo. The Blues defender was only assessed a two-minute minor, but he will have a hearing with the Department of Player Safety on Sunday. Arvidsson logged an assist, but registered on only 4:15 of ice time.
So far this season, the Skelleftea, Sweden native has scored six goals and nine assists for 15 points in 22 games to go along with four minutes in penalties. His possession numbers are 56.1 percent Corsi and a relative Corsi of 2.3.
Over his six-year NHL career, the 26-year-old has played for only the Nashville Predators. He has 108 goals and 93 assists for 201 career points in 300 career games. Nashville took him in the fourth round, 112th overall of the 2014 NHL Draft.
There’s no word on if or when the Predators will call up a replacement from AHL Milwaukee to full the roster spot.
What This Means for the Future
Nashville has been struggling as of late, but got a big win over the defending Stanley Cup champions on Saturday. The Predators are three points out of the second Wild Card spot in the Western Conference. Many expected Nashville to be among the favourites in the Western Conference.
Arvidsson’s injury might mean another opportunity for Mikael Granlund to get off the skids. The Finn has three goals and six assists in 22 games this season. Craig Smith and Calle Jarnkrok could also get some looks on the top line at the first line wing spot.
There could be some bad blood in Monday’s rematch between the Blues and Predators. However, Bortuzzo should be suspended for the upcoming matchup of Central Division rivals.
NASHVILLE, TN – OCTOBER 27: Viktor Arvidsson #33 of the Nashville Predators plays against the Edmonton Oilers at Bridgestone Arena on October 27, 2018 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Images)
