Logan Couture injury: Exploring San Jose Sharks captain's expected timeline of recovery

San Jose Sharks fans received an unfortunate update on the injury front as it was recently announced by head coach David Quinn that captain Logan Couture suffered a setback during his recovery.

Couture did not participate in training camp due to a lower-body injury he sustained in the summer, but was expected to make his return at the start of the season.

However, Quinn told THN earlier this month that Couture would miss the start of the season. He added that the Sharks captain would need to undergo more tests, with a potential return in November on the cards.

"Little bit of a setback. I know there's going to be more tests and evaluation, so we'll see," Quinn said. "Seeing him around here is killing him, but he's not gonna get out there until we're 100% sure that he's ready to go. He's frustrated, but this is part of being a pro athlete, unfortunately."

Couture is not only a key contributor to the Sharks but also a pivotal figure on their second line alongside youngsters William Eklund and Fabian Zetterlund. Zetterlund was acquired in the Timo Meier trade last season.

Sharks to be tested in Logan Couture's absence

This setback, while unfortunate for Couture and the Sharks, could open doors for other players to step up and fill the void left by the team's captain. One player who could benefit from Couture's absence is Tomas Hertl, a 2012 first-round pick. Hertl may see an elevation from the third line to the second line and an increase in power-play time, providing a bigger opportunity to showcase his skills and make a significant impact.

The Sharks have had a strong start to the season, exceeding expectations with a 3-0 record. However, maintaining their winning momentum in the competitive Western Conference without Logan Couture presents a formidable challenge. Couture's absence leaves a noticeable void in the team's lineup, and it will require a collective effort from the entire roster to compensate for his absence.

The Sharks' resilience will be tested in Logan Couture's absence, and the team will rely on their depth and the contributions of players like Tomas Hertl to help navigate the challenging weeks ahead.