Coyotes Forward Out Long-Term

Arizona Coyotes forward Johan Larsson is expected to be out for the next eight weeks after undergoing sports hernia surgery.

This is disappointing to hear, as Larsson has been quietly having a career-best season. However, due to the severity of his injury, it now has to be paused. In 29 games this campaign, he has six goals to go along with 15 points. He was on pace to easily pass his career-high of 18 points that he recorded during the 2019-20 season.

Due to his strong season, he was viewed as one of Arizona's top rental candidates. The 29-year-old is set to be an unrestricted free agent and with the Coyotes being at the bottom of the Western Conference, they naturally are set to be sellers. However, with his injury being a long-term one, it will be interesting to see if teams end up staying away.

Larsson is a versatile forward who is capable of playing both center and on the wing. He also can be utilized on the penalty kill because of his defensive nature, too. Therefore, he is the kind of bottom-six forward a playoff team would love to have - especially if he's able to produce at this pace once he returns.

Alas, here's to hoping he returns right on schedule - whether it's with the Coyotes or elsewhere.