Canucks’ Buium Faces Two-Week Absence Due to Fracture

Vancouver Canucks’ defenseman Zeev Buium is expected to be sidelined for two weeks due to a facial fracture. Head coach Adam Foote confirmed this injury to reporters on Tuesday. Buium, aged 20, sustained the injury during a recent game against the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Buium’s Injury Details

During the Canucks’ 3-2 loss to the Penguins, Buium took a puck to the face, leading to the suspected fracture in his cheekbone. As of now, Buium has not undergone surgery but is seeking a second opinion. His expected recovery time is around two weeks, potentially allowing him to return after the NHL’s break for the Winter Olympic Games.

Team Impact

The Vancouver Canucks are facing multiple injuries within their roster. Buium is one of several key players currently unavailable, joining:

• Derek Forbort (defenseman)
• Thatcher Demko (goaltender)
• Brock Boeser (forward, in concussion protocol)
• Marco Rossi (forward)

Buium has played 51 games this season, recording five goals and 20 points. Since joining the Canucks, he has contributed two goals and six points in 20 matches. He was acquired in a significant trade with the Minnesota Wild on December 12, which involved star defenseman Quinn Hughes.

Boeser’s Condition

Forward Brock Boeser is also dealing with injury issues. He is currently in concussion protocol after an incident in the final moments of the game against Pittsburgh. Boeser was hit in the head by Penguins forward Bryan Rust, resulting in the latter receiving a two-minute penalty for an illegal check.

Despite his protocol status, Boeser is reportedly feeling better. He has had a solid season with 12 goals and 25 points across 50 games. Boeser recently signed a seven-year contract extension worth $50.75 million, securing his future in Vancouver.

Upcoming Outlook

Buium’s absence will be felt on the defensive line, yet the Canucks hope to integrate him back into the lineup following the Olympic break. Support from other players will be crucial as the team navigates through these challenging times.