What It Means:

Kuznetsov was hit in the face by Mikael Granlund's stick during Thursday's game against the Minnesota Wild. There was some worry about Kuznetsov's health since he did not return to the game after the incident, but he is expected to participate in Saturday morning's skate. He should be ready to play Saturday against the Dallas Stars.

Kuznetsov is having a tremendous season, posting 54 points (15 goals, 39 assists) in 53 games played, but he has been average at driving possession. His Corsi For Percentage is 51.6, and his Relative Corsi For at Even Strength is 1.6. We project the 23-year-old to record another 25 points (eight goals, 17 assists) over the remaining course of the season.