Zucker Surgery Absence Shapes Opening Lineup

Jason Zucker is expected to miss the start of the season, potentially the first two weeks, after sports hernia surgery. His absence is creating meaningful middle-six opportunities for Josh Doan, Jack Quinn, Noah Ostlund, Konsta Helenius and Conor Sheary, while Peyton Krebs has received another look on the top line and Louis Crevier's recovery could affect opening-night roster decisions.