Nikita Grebenkin did not take the ice for the Philadelphia Flyers in a must-win game vs. the Columbus Blue Jackets on Tuesday. In a crucial game, you would have expected one of your young, playmaking wingers to be in the lineup.
Grebenkin was a scratch on Tuesday, which, at the time, seemed like a bit of a head scratcher. Now, the move makes a bit more sense. It’s become clear that it was not a healthy scratch for the young Russian winger.
The 22-year-old was absent from Wednesday’s practice. Afterwards, Flyers head coach Rick Tocchet gave an update on the status of his young forward.
“He’s been dealing with some things the last couple of games,” said Tocchet. “He went to see a doctor today to get some more tests done on him.”
When asked if Grebenkin was a possibility for Thursday’s matchup with the Chicago Blackhawks, Tocchet answered, “Probably not, but I still have to talk to the trainers.” Tocchet later clarified that Grebenkin is dealing with an upper-body injury.
The Flyers’ winger has 4 goals and 14 total points in 55 games this season. Grebenkin has played up and down the lineup this season. He has struggled since the Olympic break, earning just two points in his 13 games since.
While it seems unlikely that Grebenkin is ready to go for Thursday’s game, an update will be given when more details become available.
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