Morrissey exits Jets-Avalanche game with upper-body issue
Winnipeg defenseman Josh Morrissey left Wednesday's game against Colorado and did not return because of an upper-body injury. He appeared to get hurt late in the first period when he went into the boards after attempting a hit on Avalanche rookie T.J. Hughes. Morrissey briefly returned for one shift in the second period before heading back to the locker room.
Morrissey, 31, is in his 11th full NHL campaign, all with Winnipeg. Entering Wednesday, he had appeared in all four Jets games this season, recording three assists after being blanked in the opener. He averaged 23:35 of ice time and carried a minus-1 rating.
Before exiting, he logged 9:32 over 11 shifts with one shot and one block. Across 743 regular-season contests, the Calgary-born defenseman has 431 points, plus 20 in 54 playoff games. Winnipeg's start had exceeded limited expectations amid off-ice questions involving Connor Hellebuyck.
The injury may affect Winnipeg's on-ice performance and fan morale, especially if Morrissey misses time. Teammates could face larger roles and heavier minutes, while supporters and local businesses tied to game-day interest may feel shifts in attention. For Morrissey, health and career continuity are personal concerns. The broader impact likely remains limited to the hockey community unless the absence is lengthy.