Two Detroit Red Wings Players Out Through Olympic Break

The Detroit Red Wings will be without defenseman Troy Stecher and forward Mitchell Stephens until at least after the Olympic break next February. Stetcher underwent wrist surgery, while Stevens is dealing with a lower-body injury.

INJURY UPDATE: Detroit Red Wings announce Troy Stecher (wrist surgery) and Mitchell Stephens (lower-body) are out through the February Olympic break. #LGRW
— NHL News (@PuckReportNHL) November 23, 2021

This is not what the Red Wings needed right now. At this time, they are currently fourth in the Atlantic Division with an 8-9-3 record. The Boston Bruins are one point behind them with five games in hand, so it seems inevitable that they will eventually pass them. However, losing two depth players long term doesn't help their chances of remaining competitive.

Stecher has been out of Detroit's lineup since November 4th, but now we have a better understanding of when to expect him to return. It's certainly a disappointing development, as he's a solid part of their blueline. In six games this season, he has an assist.

Stephens last played on November 13th when the Red Wings faced off against the Montreal Canadiens. This is very tough news for the 24-year-old forward, as this was his first time being a full-time NHLer. Detroit acquired him over the offseason from the Tampa Bay Lightning. In a bottom-six role with the Red Wings, Stevens has four assists in 16 games. In two seasons with the Lightning, he only played in 45 games due to their strong forward depth.

Nonetheless, it's always hard to hear players being out for multiple months. Here's to hoping they can recover from their injuries ahead of schedule.