A few weeks and 150 games into the NHL season, most officials have already taken the ice. There are a few, though, who are sidelined with injuries.
Day-to-Day
Linesperson Scott Cherrey took a puck to the face at Rangers vs. Canadiens on October 18. He hasn’t worked since. No word on the severity of his injury nor timetable for his return.
Injured Reserve
Referee Steve Kozari worked only 20 games last season, his most recent appearance coming on December 29 at Capitals vs. Red Wings.
Bryan Pancich was injured during the postseason, suffering an injury during the opening round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs, when he was hit by Brett Howden at Game 1 between the Wild and Golden Knights.
No word on their status or when they’re expected back on the ice.
Undisclosed Reasons
Three officials have yet to work a game during the 2025-26 NHL season. Their previous appearances, though, were completed without incident, which means their absences are likely due to offseason surgery or a training injury.
Linesperson Ryan Daisy has yet to take the ice this season; his last game was Game 6 of Oilers vs. Stars in the Conference Finals.
Referee Chris Rooney also handled his last game in the postseason, working the final game of the NHL season: Oilers vs. Panthers, Game 6 of the Stanley Cup Final.
Referee Francois St. Laurent took the ice most recently for Game 6 of the second round series between Dallas and Winnipeg.
Activated
Linesperson Shandor Alphonso was ready to go for the start of the 2025-26 NHL season after suffering an upper-body injury during the playoffs. Alphonso was caught up in a collision and unable to return to Game 2 of the second round series between the Florida Panthers and Toronto Maple Leafs, leaving ref Wes McCauley to pull on the #85 and work the lines. Alphonso required surgery but was ready to go by the start of the season, working October 14.
