NHL rookie sensation out four-to-six weeks following serious sprain

The Anaheim Ducks face a setback as standout rookie center Leo Carlsson is expected to miss four to six weeks due to a Grade I right MCL sprain sustained against the Flames. In lesser news, defenseman Radko Gudas will be out for tonight's game against the Kraken with a lower-body injury also sustained Thursday, to be evaluated after the holiday break.

This is positive news for the Ducks and Carlsson, avoiding a much more prolonged absence after an awkward fall in Thursday's matchup. Daily Faceoff's Frank Seravalli reported earlier Saturday that Carlsson's injury was not season-ending.

Carlsson, turning 19 in three days, has had a promising start to his NHL career, with eight goals, seven assists, and 15 points through 23 games this season. The Ducks took a unique approach to Carlsson's development, scratching him on multiple occasions to avoid playing the rookie in more than two games per week. This cautious strategy aligns with the rookie's transition from the Swedish Hockey League, known for its more spaced-out schedule.

Carlsson frequently centered the first line with Alex Killorn and Troy Terry. His absence will be filled by Trevor Zegras, returning to the lineup after missing 20 games with a lower-body injury. Zegras, after a drawn-out contract negotiation process last summer, is set to be the team's de facto number-one center.