It is no exaggeration to say that forward Mark Stone has been crucial to the Ottawa Senators season and their five game winning streak.
Stone left the ice in the third period as the Ottawa Senators captured two points in the desert.
Can't be good news on Mark Stone. The Sens have recalled Phil Varone.
— Steve Lloyd (@TSNSteveLloyd) March 10, 2017
The sort of tweet that would strike fear into many. Stone has been part of the core of this team that is now competing for the Atlantic division trophy.
The right winger has 50 points in 63 games and a +/- of +10. Adding enormously to this season’s effort.
It appeared to be a lower-body injury that Stone suffered, there has been no official word from the club.
Oddly enough, Mark’s brother Michael now of the Calgary flames also suffered an injury against the Montreal Canadiens last night.
It would also seem that it is very unlikely that Stone will feature against the Colorado Avalanche, with Phil Varone being recalled from the Binghamton Senators.
The Impact?
If Stone is to be out of tomorrow’s game then the Sens forward line is completely depleted from where it was at training camp. Clarke MacArthur, Bobby Ryan, Kyle Turris and Mark Stone could potentially all be out against the Avalanche. Four of the top-six forwards is not ideal by any means.
As good as the system is, and the composure with which Ottawa are playing, they still need talent in order to secure goals.
Stone has only produced 3 points in his last 5, but he adds passion and character to this team.
Possessing a shooting percentage of 18.3 percent, Stone makes the most of his chances and doesn’t waste them for his team.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully this is not a long-term injury. Given the tough tests of Tampa and Chicago that are on the horizon, the Ottawa Senators need as full a squad as they can muster.
Stone is an offensive genius and is fundamentally needed in this team. Playing with Brassard and Burrows, the three linking up have looked unstoppable at times.
Next: Leaving It Late In The Desert
Varone needs to make a statement, having been called up a few times and simply not offering enough.