Jordan Staal to miss 1-2 months with torn calf

Carolina Hurricanes captain Jordan Staal is expected to miss one to two months due to a partially torn calf muscle. The 38-year-old veteran sustained the injury during warmups prior to a game against the Philadelphia Flyers on Sunday.

Head coach Rod Brind’Amour described the injury as a “freak thing” and noted that Staal’s absence will present a significant challenge for the team. Staal is a key defensive forward who typically handles difficult matchups and leads the team in short-handed ice time.

With Staal sidelined and Seth Jarvis also recovering from shoulder surgery, the Hurricanes are expected to adjust their lineup, with Jesperi Kotkaniemi likely to fill the vacancy. Staal previously earned the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP following his performance in the Stanley Cup Final.