Around the NHL: Banged up Blues, Moore suspension, Gordie

As if losing prized free agent Paul Stasny to a shoulder injury wasn't enough, the St. Louis Blues found out two more of their top forwards will be joining him on the injury report. Capatain David Backes and T.J Oshie both suffered concussions in Tuesday's game against the Stars.

Backes played a shade right around four four minutes when he collided with Trevor Daly.  As the two collided, Backes got turned around and smacked his head on the ice.  He was taken back to the room and did not return.  There is no timetable as of yet for his return.

Oshie also suffered a concussion that night as his head came in contact with the goal post.  The shootout wizard was hit from behind in the crease. He was evaluated but returned to play over 20 minutes of game time only to be shut down afterwards.

The New York Rangers will be without defensemen John Moore for five games.  Moore was suspended by the leagues department of player safety for a hit to the head of Minnesota forward Erik Haula.  this marks the second time Moore has been suspended by the league.

The league stated, although Haula was elgible to be hit on the play, it was Moore who was at fault for the hit to the head.  Moore had the dreaded in person hearing Wednesday afternoon.  Based on the severity of the hit and the fact that Moore is a repeat offender the league handed down the five game ban.

The entire Flyerdelphia family sends it's thoughts and prayers to Mr. Hockey and the entire Howe family. As most of you know Gordie Howe suffered what was classified as a significant stroke this week.  Intial reports seemed bleak but since Wednesday there have been reports the Hall of Famer is making some progress in his recovery.  

Howe's son, former Flyer defensemen and Hall of Famer himself, Mark released a statement the other day. He said his father has had a few mini strokes over the summer and doctors had warned the family the mini strokes would get worse.

While Gordie has a long way to go if he is to recover, Mark believes his dad could do it. "We're keeping our fingers crossed. If anybody can recover, I know Dad can". Good luck Gordie.

There were a few milestones reached last night. Penguins forward Evegni Malkin recorded his 400th career assist in the Pens 3-0 victory over the Kings.  Marian Hossa recorded his 1,000th point in Chicago's 5-4 shootout win in Ottawa.

Points Leaders through 10/30/14

Goals – Perry 9

Assists – Voracek 12

Points – Seguin, Crosby, Voracek 15

Bill Minchin is a contributiong writer for Flyerdelphia. Fllow Bill on twitter @wtfd103074