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Predators' Ryan Ellis: Out until January

If any team could weather the storm of losing one of its top-pairing defensemen, it's Nashville. While replacing Ellis' 16 goals and 22 assists is no easy task, the Preds still have Roman Josi, P.K. Subban, Mattias Ekholm and new addition Alexei Emelin. Perhaps the biggest beneficiary of the 26-year-old Ontarian's absence is Alexandre Carrier, who could earn a spot on the 23-man roster out of training camp.

Predators' Ryan Ellis: Recovering from knee surgery

The prolific two-way rearguard sustained an upper-body injury against the Penguins during the Stanley Cup Finals, but there hadn't been any talk of a knee issue for Ellis, therefore, we shouldn't assume the two ailments are related. Provided he makes a full recovery, fantasy owners should still feel confident drafting the burgeoning defenseman, as he's coming off a career year (38 points in 71 games) and his average ice time rose for the third consecutive season -- all the way to 23:57 in 2016-17.

Predators' Ryan Ellis: Confirmed for Game 6

In case there was any doubt left, the Preds' rearguard is, indeed, good to go for Sunday's elimination game. Ellis only played 10:44 in Game 5 before departing, but he's chosen to tough out whatever injury he's dealing with to try to help the team stave off elimination and force a deciding Game 7 back in Pittsburgh. He's slated to skate on the top defensive pairing and power-play unit, though both of those assignments could change based on his health.

Predators' Ryan Ellis: Likely to play Game 6

There is still a chance that Ellis could be scratched at the last moment and we will be sure to update his status if he is, but with the Predators' season and a chance at the Stanley Cup on the line, it seems as though he'll gut it out Sunday. Ellis will look to pick up his game after posting two points and a minus-2 rating in the first five games of the series.

Predators' Ryan Ellis: Skips optional morning skate

Ellis reportedly couldn't put much power behind his shot while skating solo. Early indications on his status for Game 6 don't appear promising, but an official update should arrive closer to the opening faceoff. If he can't go, Anthony Bitetto would be the likely candidate to take his place in the lineup.