The Vancouver Canucks have recalled defenceman Ashton Sautner from the Utica Comets this morning

This move follows Chris Tanev leaving the game last night against Nashville early. Without confirmation, we can’t say for sure, but it’s fair to suggest that prognosis on Tanev isn’t great.

At this moment, Philip Holm and Evan McEneny are currently out with injury. Holm is currently day to day and is expected to return soon, while McEneny will not return this season. Both of them would’ve likely been ahead of Sautner on the recall list.

As for Jalen Chatfield and Guillaume Brisebois – both players are in their first year of professional hockey and need to play. It’s unlikely that Sautner sees much game action, so instead of sitting in the pressbox, Chatfield and Brisebois get to play a lot for Utica.

Lastly – Patrick Wiercioch would’ve been the logical option as he has been playing well for the Comets and was signed as a depth option for the season. But because he had previously been on the NHL roster (sitting in the pressbox) for 29 days, he would require waivers after being on the Canucks for more than a day. Which is likely why he was passed over for Sautner.

The Canucks play the San Jose Sharks on Friday and I’m sure we’ll know more about Tanev’s situation soon.