Morrissey’s tournament status clarified. He’s sidelined until the knockout round, a precautionary move for Team Canada’s blue line.
Fans of the Winnipeg Jets finally received a meaningful update on defenseman Josh Morrissey after he was forced out of action during Team Canada’s win over Czechia on Thursday.
Morrissey exited the contest following an awkward collision that fans later identified as the likely source of the injury. During the play, Morrissey’s leg appeared to tangle with a Czechia player who had his leg extended, resulting in knee to leg contact. The Jets blueliner skated off gingerly and attempted to return early in the second period, but after taking just one shift, he was unable to continue.
The concern surrounding Morrissey lingered into Friday, when Canada secured another victory, this time over Switzerland. After the game, head coach Jon Cooper addressed Morrissey’s status, confirming the defenseman will also miss Canada’s final round robin matchup against France on Sunday.
However, Cooper offered reassuring news for both Canadian and Winnipeg fans. “By no means is he out for the tournament,” Cooper said, according to Winnipeg Free Press reporter Mike McIntyre.
The update suggests Morrissey’s lower body injury is not considered serious, and his absence appears precautionary as Canada prepares for the elimination rounds. For Jets fans, the news is particularly encouraging, as it indicates the injury is unlikely to impact Morrissey long term when Winnipeg resumes NHL action.
While his availability for Sunday remains ruled out, the expectation is that Morrissey could return later in the tournament, a welcome development for both Team Canada’s blue line and the Jets organization.
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