Wild Forward Nico Sturm Injured by Puck
Minnesota Wild forward Nico Sturm underwent medical evaluation after being struck in the head by a puck during a home game.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Hockey
Minnesota Wild forward Nico Sturm was sent to a hospital for evaluation after taking a puck to the head during the first period of a game against Vegas. The team secured a 4-2 victory despite the injury incident.
Why it matters
The incident adds to injury concerns for the roster as the team continues its season. With Brock Faber also out indefinitely due to a skull fracture, the team faces significant challenges in maintaining its lineup depth.
The Minnesota Wild currently hold a 4-1-1 season record following their 4-2 win against Vegas. The roster is currently managing multiple health setbacks, including an indefinite absence for Brock Faber.
The players
Nico Sturm
Nico Sturm is a professional hockey player who serves as a forward for the Minnesota Wild.
Jared Spurgeon
Jared Spurgeon is a professional hockey player and teammate of Nico Sturm who struck the puck.
Brock Faber
Brock Faber is a professional hockey player for the Minnesota Wild who is currently sidelined with a skull fracture.
Michael McCarron
Michael McCarron is a professional hockey player who assisted Nico Sturm off the ice following the injury.
The details
Sturm was struck on the right side of his helmet by a slap shot from teammate Jared Spurgeon during the first period. He was assisted off the ice by teammate Michael McCarron before being taken for further evaluation.
Timeline
October 12, 2026: Sturm was struck by a puck during the game.
October 13, 2026: The team is scheduled to play in Winnipeg.
Season Trajectory
The injury to Nico Sturm impacts the team's depth as they contend with multiple long-term health concerns on the roster. This absence forces the coaching staff to adjust their lineup combinations during a critical early-season stretch.
Nico Sturm is unlikely to travel for the upcoming game in Winnipeg, which will necessitate an immediate change to the team's forward rotation. Fantasy managers should monitor roster updates to see which players move up to fill his spot in the lineup.
The takeaway
Head injuries in hockey highlight the physical risks players face during every shift on the ice. Teams must rely on their depth to maintain performance levels when key players are removed for mandatory medical evaluations.
Further reading
For more on local team developments, visit the Hockey section.
