Leo Carlsson returns to Anaheim Ducks lineup against Florida Panthers

The Anaheim Ducks have announced that forward Leo Carlsson has been activated off injured reserve and will play against the Florida Panthers on Monday afternoon.

Carlsson suffered an MCL sprain just before Christmas, knocking him out of action for a projected 4-6 weeks. It was a big blow for a rookie averaging 18:03 a night. Drafted second overall in 2023, the 19-year-old center has eight goals and 15 points as the Ducks have looked to ease him into the lineup.

Carlsson’s return from injury gives the team some extra relief after Trevor Zegras was placed on injured reserve with a broken ankle last week, an ailment that will knock him out for 6-8 weeks. Forward Brett Leason, meanwhile, is day-to-day.

Carlsson will center the top line with Troy Terry and Alex Killorn, with Mason McTavish leading Adam Henrique and Ryan Strome.

The Ducks sit seventh in the Pacific Division, and are hoping to end a two-game losing skid after dropped efforts to Carolina and Tampa Bay. The Ducks will play against Tuesday night against the Washington Capitals before facing off against Californian rivals San Jose on Saturday evening.