Canucks' Nils Hoglander Out 8-10 Weeks After Ankle Surgery

Vancouver Canucks forward Nils Höglander will miss 8 to 10 weeks following successful lower-body surgery due to an injury sustained in a preseason game against the Calgary Flames. Initially considered a week-to-week ankle sprain, the injury's severity required surgery, sidelining Höglander until at least late November or mid-December. Höglander, who signed a three-year, $9 million extension last October, had a down season with eight goals compared to his career-high 24 goals in 2023-24. His absence opens opportunities for players like Drew O'Connor, Evander Kane, Jonathan Lekkerimäki, and others to compete for his spot on the left wing. The Canucks aim to improve their offensive production, as they ranked 23rd in scoring last season, and new coach Adam Foote emphasizes a faster pace and detailed play. The injury is seen as a significant setback for Vancouver's lineup ahead of the 2025-26 NHL season.