Overview

• General manager Julien BriseBois announced at media day that Paul had upper‑body surgery last week after managing the issue through last season.
• The club pursued rehabilitation during and after 2024–25 before deciding surgery was necessary.
• Paul is expected to miss the start of 2025–26 with an early‑November target for return, with Nov. 8 vs. Washington the earliest home date.
• Lineup projections elevate Oliver Bjorkstrand, with Jakob Pelletier and prospects Dylan Duke, Jack Finley, Sam O’Reilly and Ethan Gauthier under consideration for minutes.
• The 30‑year‑old posted 22 goals and 41 points in 76 games last season and is midway through a seven‑year contract carrying a $3.15 million AAV.