2 key Mammoth players likely to miss 1st round of postseason

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The Utah Mammoth are preparing for their first-ever Stanley Cup Playoff appearance, but they will likely be without two key centers - Barrett Hayton and Jack McBain - for the opening round. Hayton has been dealing with an upper-body injury since late March, while McBain has been out since April 2 against the Seattle Kraken.

Why it matters

The Mammoth have built a deep group of centers this season, with Hayton and McBain providing valuable secondary scoring and physical play. Their absences will be a significant blow as the team prepares for the more intense and physical nature of the playoffs.

The details

Hayton, who has 10 goals and 15 assists this season, has not played since logging just 17 seconds against the Edmonton Oilers on March 24. He did participate in the team's morning skate on Tuesday but is still considered week-to-week. McBain, who has 9 goals and 16 assists, has been out since the April 2 game against the Seattle Kraken. As a 6-foot-4, 219-pound center, McBain's physical presence will be missed in the postseason.

• Hayton has been out since March 24.
• McBain has been out since April 2.
• The Mammoth have clinched a wild card spot in the Western Conference playoffs.

What they’re saying

What’s next

If the Vegas Golden Knights defeat the Seattle Kraken on Wednesday night, or take the game to overtime, they will lock up the Pacific Division and be the opponent of the Mammoth in the first round of the playoffs. If the Golden Knights lose to the Kraken on Wednesday, the Edmonton Oilers can win the division with a win over the Vancouver Canucks on Thursday, which would set them up against the Mammoth.