Minnesota Wild forward Marcus Johansson was injured in Game 3 against the Vegas Golden Knights on Thursday. He was driving hard to the net when he lost an edge and went sliding into the post, his left side hitting first. Johansson suffered a broken arm and underwent surgery today.
Marcus Johansson had successful surgery to repair his broken arm yesterday, Evason said
— Michael Russo (@RussoHockey) May 22, 2021
Marcus Johansson Injured in Game 3
Johansson is not the most impactful player for the Wild, but losing him is still a blow. A veteran presence is key to winning a long series, especially after losing a crucial game. In 36 games played with the Wild during the regular season, Johansson had 14 points in the form of six goals and eight assists. In the playoffs so far, he has not registered a point during three games, with an average ice time of about 11 minutes. Over his 11 year career, he’s played for four other teams, skating in a total of 684 games. He’s put up 135 goals and 243 assists, adding to 378 points over that time.
Moving Forward For Minnesota
With Marcus Johansson injured, it might be time for another veteran to finally see some playoff hockey. Zach Parise has been a healthy scratch for the entire series so far against Vegas. The 16 year veteran has played in 101 playoff games, racking up 77 points. While his numbers this regular season were far from impressive, he is the perfect replacement for Johansson. He slots in exactly where Johansson would be – a third or fourth line winger.
A natural-born leader, Parise has been with Minnesota since the 2012-13 season. Especially after losing a critical Game 3, the Wild’s confidence will be shaken. It is the job of leaders like Parise to refocus the team and get them in a winning mindset. Confidence is key to winning a series, especially as the underdog. It will be a telling Game 4 to see whether or not the Wild made the mental adjustments to bring back the series.
Main Photo:
Embed from Getty Images
