Hurricanes Captain Jordan Staal Sustained Calf Tear

The veteran center will be sidelined for one to two months after suffering a calf injury during pre-game warmups.

Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Hockey

Expressive editorial sports illustration of a hockey player in motion, capturing the intensity of professional ice hockey. — Carolina Hurricanes captain Jordan Staal is sidelined for up to two months after sustaining a calf tear during pre-game warmups. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Carolina Hurricanes captain Jordan Staal has been ruled out for the next one to two months due to a calf tear. The injury occurred during warmups prior to the team's matchup against the Philadelphia Flyers.

Why it matters

Staal's absence forces the Hurricanes to adjust their lineup as they navigate the start of the season without their team captain. The organization plans to mitigate the impact by calling up a player from their Chicago AHL affiliate.

Jordan Staal sustained a calf tear that will keep him off the ice for one to two months. Mark Jankowski was tapped to replace him in the lineup following the injury.

The players

Jordan Staal

He is the captain of the Carolina Hurricanes and a veteran NHL center.

Mark Jankowski

He is a professional hockey player who filled the roster spot left by the injured captain.

The details

The injury took place during warmups, forcing the team to immediately reorganize their roster for the game against the Philadelphia Flyers. Mark Jankowski filled the vacancy left by the veteran captain during the contest.

October 11, 2026: Jordan Staal missed the game against the Philadelphia Flyers.

Season Trajectory

The loss of a captain for an extended period disrupts the Hurricanes' depth chart during the critical first two months of the season. This roster vacancy necessitates immediate adjustments as the team maintains their standing within the NHL regular season schedule.

The Hurricanes must now utilize their AHL affiliate in Chicago to provide necessary depth at the center position. Fantasy owners and team followers should monitor for the official announcement regarding which prospect will join the main roster.

The takeaway

Sudden injuries to core leaders require immediate adjustments to team depth and player development strategies. Teams often look to internal affiliates to fill gaps when key veterans are sidelined for significant stretches.