Global Ice Hockey Injury Report: Islanders Trio Nears Return as Kyrou, Faksa, and Backstrom Target Comebacks

The grueling nature of the professional ice hockey season means the summer months are often defined not just by free agency, but by the quiet, rigorous work of rehabilitation. As the calendar turns to July 2026, several key players across the NHL and Europe's top leagues are making significant strides in their recoveries from mid-season surgeries, offering a wave of optimism for their respective clubs.[1]

In New York, the Islanders are receiving highly encouraging news regarding a trio of core contributors who spent significant time on the shelf. Veteran forward Kyle Palmieri, who suffered a torn ACL in late November, has officially resumed skating on his own. The 35-year-old winger is currently on track to be fully ready for the start of training camp in September, a remarkable turnaround for a notoriously difficult injury.

Joining Palmieri in the Islanders' recovery ward is top-four defenseman Alexander Romanov. Following right shoulder surgery that prematurely ended his 2025-26 campaign, Romanov is reportedly very close to returning to full hockey activities. His physical, minute-munching presence was sorely missed on the New York blue line, and his expected availability for camp fundamentally stabilizes the team's defensive depth chart.[3]

Furthermore, Islanders forward Pierre Engvall is making steady progress following offseason ankle surgery. While the team is planning a gradual ramp-up to ensure he returns to full strength without setbacks, the current expectation is that Engvall will be cleared for the opening of camp, providing New York with a fully healthy forward corps to start the year.

In the Western Conference, the St. Louis Blues received a positive update on dynamic forward Jordan Kyrou. The 27-year-old, who posted 46 points in 72 games this past season, underwent a minor knee procedure in late April. The operation was deemed a complete success, and Kyrou is fully expected to be ready for the first day of training camp, allowing him to build on his established chemistry with center Robert Thomas.[1]

The Dallas Stars are similarly optimistic about the health of veteran checking-line center Radek Faksa. General Manager Jim Nill confirmed that Faksa underwent successful surgery to repair a lingering foot injury that hampered him throughout the regular season. With the procedure complete, Faksa is projected to be at 100 percent by September, restoring a vital piece of the Stars' penalty kill and defensive structure.[3]

Youth is also being served in the recovery room. Vancouver Canucks highly-touted prospect Jonathan Lekkerimäki, who saw his 2025-26 season end early due to surgery, is progressing perfectly through his rehabilitation. The 21-year-old forward, who logged valuable NHL minutes before the Olympic break, is slated to be fully cleared for Vancouver's 2026-27 training camp, keeping his development trajectory firmly on track.[2]

Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Penguins are looking forward to the return of defenseman Caleb Jones. After a tumultuous season that included a lower-body injury and a subsequent right shoulder surgery in March, the 28-year-old is on schedule with his four-to-six-month recovery timeline. The Penguins remain highly optimistic that Jones will be ready for the start of the regular season, adding essential depth to their blue line.

The Carolina Hurricanes, fresh off their 2026 Stanley Cup victory, are also managing offseason maintenance. Forward Eric Robinson underwent knee surgery shortly after the championship parade. With a projected rehab window of up to two months, Robinson is expected to be completely healthy before training camp begins, ensuring the defending champions retain their trademark forward depth.

Across the Atlantic, the Swedish Hockey League (SHL) is witnessing a heartwarming commitment to player health. Brynäs IF has officially exercised the contract option for 38-year-old center Nicklas Backstrom for the 2026-27 season, despite the veteran dealing with chronic injury issues that make his playing status uncertain. Rather than cutting ties, the club has prioritized his well-being.

Brynäs has partnered with a specialist clinic in Stockholm to work alongside the team's existing rehabilitation staff, creating a comprehensive support system for the legendary playmaker. The organization has publicly stated they will give Backstrom all the time and resources required, building their roster with the understanding that any on-ice contribution from him this season will be viewed as a welcome bonus.

Ultimately, these updates underscore the evolving landscape of sports medicine and player care in professional hockey. From the meticulous, data-driven ACL recoveries in the NHL to the holistic, patient-first approach demonstrated by Brynäs in the SHL, the focus has shifted entirely toward sustainable, long-term health, ensuring that when these athletes return to the ice, they are truly ready to compete at the highest level.[1]