Barry Trotz did not offer much on Cal Clutterbuck's status for Game 3, but his tight lips could mean that the winger won't suit up for Game 3 of the second-round series against the Hurricanes.

When reporters inquired about a Clutterback update Monday, the coach responded with a one-word answer: "Nope."

Given that uncertainty, here are a few options the Isles can turn to in Clutterbuck's absence:

Michael Dal Colle

The winger appeared in 28 contests this year, averaging 12:07 of ice time when he did suit up. The 22-year-old tallied seven points (three goals, four assists) on the year.

"Dally is definitely an option in that situation," Trotz said, per Newsday. "Dally has been an option for us the first couple of games. We didn't go there. Maybe we do.

"This time of the year, people have to step up. Clutter got hurt [Sunday]. We'll see where he is going forward. If you're going to have success in the playoffs, it's the next guy up."

Ross Johnston

Johnston is the other forward currently with the team. He played 17 games this season with one goal and three assists. Dal Colle would almost definitely get the nod over him, but Johnston remains an option.

Bridgeport players

AHL Bridgeport ended its season Saturday, and Trotz did not rule out the possibility of calling up one of the players for the open roster spot. The most likely choices in this scenario would be Josh Ho-Sang or Otto Koivula.

"We've talked about that," Trotz said. "I would probably say there's a good chance there will be one or two people. But we'll discuss that. That'll be an organizational discussion."

Popular in the Community