Leo Carlsson injury update: Anaheim Ducks provide status on No. 2 draft pick after scary collision

Leo Carlsson, exited the game on Thursday night after a collision with the Flames defenseman MacKenzie Weegar. The incident unfolded midway through the third period as Carlsson and Weegar became entangled along the sideboards at center ice.

The severity of Leo Carlsson's injury raised immediate worries, particularly as he had to be assisted off the ice, unable to put weight on his right leg.

Anaheim Ducks announced tonight that Leo Carlsson has suffered a sprained right MCL injury and will be out of the lineup for approximately 6-8 weeks.

Alongside Carlsson's injury update, the Ducks also announced Radko Gudas' lower-body injury, sidelining the defenseman for today's game and further evaluation after the hockey break.

Forward Trevor Zegras was also activated off injury reserve and made his return against the Seattle Kraken tonight.

Before the team's official annoucement, NHL insider Frank Seravalli provided a glimmer of hope for the Anaheim Ducks and their supporters regarding Leon Carlsson's injury.

On his X account, Seravalli shared an update that suggested the initial prognosis for Carlsson's injury was relatively positive. In a reassuring statement, Seravalli wrote,

"Sounds like #NHLDucks are still working on a definitive timeline to return, but initial prognosis is good news. Star rookie Leo Carlsson’s injury is not believed to be season ending. More to come."

A quick look into Leo Carlsson's NHL career

The Swedish forward honed his skills in the SHL, making his professional debut at 17 and garnering attention as a "blue-chip" prospect. The Ducks secured his talents with a three-year, entry-level contract signed on July 12, 2023.

Despite a setback with an injury in early October, Carlsson demonstrated resilience, earning a spot on the Ducks' opening-night roster for the 2023–24 season. His NHL debut on October 19 saw him score a goal in a close match against the Dallas Stars.

The young forward made history on November 10, becoming the youngest player in Ducks franchise history to record a hat trick at 18 years and 319 days old in a game against the Philadelphia Flyers.