Pontus Näsén looks set to miss Wednesday’s road game against Leksand.
Barometern-OT reports that the IK defenseman was forced to leave after taking a hit and is now being assessed. Sporting director Arsi Piispanen told the newspaper that the club does not believe the injury is as serious as Manuel Ågren’s, but that Näsén is in pain. Asked whether he will play against Leksand, Piispanen said he does not think so.
That is the verified part. The rest is our reading of what his absence would mean.
Näsén is the established offensive engine on IK’s blue line. When he left the game against Vimmerby, much of the offensive responsibility among the defensemen fell to 18-year-old Axel Elofsson. It is an intriguing opportunity for the junior, but not a reasonable long-term division of labor if Näsén is out for more than one game.
Manuel Ågren is also missing further up the lineup. His absence should not be confused with the situation on defense, but it does mean IK are already without one of their intended offensive difference-makers. If Näsén is also unavailable against Leksand, the team will lose another player who would normally be expected to drive play with the puck.
There may also be a small subplot in the team selection. Hugo Allvin came through Leksand’s junior system and could be an option if IK need another defenseman. It has not been confirmed that he will get the chance, but if he does, this will be a special road game for him.
For now, though, Näsén’s status is what matters most. According to Piispanen, the club does not believe it is as bad as Ågren’s injury. That is the positive part. Until there is a clearer update, however, IK should plan for Wednesday as though their most important offensive defenseman will not play.