Without a doubt, injuries have been the biggest story of the Vancouver Canucks‘ season so far.

Filip Chytil was a part of this team’s lineup for just six games. Nils Höglander has been out since the preseason. Captain Quinn Hughes recently missed four games with a groin injury, but thankfully returned against the Predators. The Canucks’ leading scorer and hands-down their best forward this season, Conor Garland, has missed the last three games. Jonathan Lekkerimäki has missed ten games and counting. Teddy Blueger has played in just two games this season, further depleting an already weak centre core. On the blue line, Victor Mancini and Derek Forbort remain out with injuries. Through all of that, the Canucks have managed to keep their heads above water with a .500 record through 14 games.

As we learned earlier this week, both Garland and Blueger are close to returning, which is great news for the club. After today’s morning skate, assistant coach Brett McLean provided further updates on the Canucks’ injured players.

Conor Garland: returns to the lineup for tonight’s game against the Chicago Blackhawks.

Teddy Blueger: Looking for Teddy to be part of a practice in a non-contact jersey. The Canucks’ next practice is expected to be on Friday.

Jonathan Lekkerimäki: Also hoping to get in for a skate in a non-contact jersey soon.

Derek Forbort, Victor Mancini, and Nils Höglander: No update from coach.

Filip Chytil: No update from coach. Continuing to go through concussion protocol.

Garland also spoke about his excitement in returning to the lineup, and his quotes will be featured in today’s edition of Scenes from Morning Skate. Garland leads the Canucks in points and has without a doubt been the team’s best forward so far this season, and should give the Canucks a big boost against the Blackhawks tonight.