Canucks forward Conor Garland ruled out just before game time due to unexpected injury

Over the last couple of days, reports out of Vancouver have escalated trade rumors around several players including Conor Garland.

Now, with the Canucks already missing several players up front due to injury, Garland's name has been added to the list as he will be unexpectedly out of the lineup tonight against the Vegas Golden Knights.

Further reports have confirmed that Garland will be out due to an upper-body injury and will be replaced by top prospect Jonathan Lekkerimaki.

Before this injury, Garland had been rolling along and was on pace for the most points of his Canucks tenure at 55.

A frustrating injury now turns into an opportunity for Lekkerimaki who is looking to prove he still can play at a high level and be a legitimate NHL player.

Tonight, Lekkerimaki will draw into the third line alongside Aatu Raty and Drew O'Connor while the top-six features Evander Kane, Jake DeBrusk, Brock Boeser, and Kiefer Sherwood on the wings.

Kevin Lankinen will also return to the net after dealing with a short injury stint looking to get the Canucks back on track again.

In 5 AHL appearances this season Lekkerimaki is a point per game with 3 goals as well.

Now, he will likely be thrust into a key role on the third line with potential power play time tonight against the Vegas Golden Knights.

After the game, it will be interesting to hear from head coach Adam Foote to provide a more in depth update on Garland's injury and recovery timeline.