Tampa Bay Lightning center Yanni Gourde (hip) could be an option during the team's upcoming road trip, Benjamin Pierce of the Lightning's official site reports. The Lightning face four straight road games after hosting the Chicago Blackhawks Thursday night. Gourde hasn't played this season due to hip surgery. As a versatile forward, he will be a welcome addition to Tampa Bay, though fantasy managers shouldn't expect huge numbers from the 34-year-old. In 2025-26, Gourde tallied 28 points (nine goals, 19 assists) in 82 games.

Dallas Stars defenseman Miro Heiskanen (upper body) is day-to-day after exiting early in Tuesday's win over Washington. He isn't expected to play Thursday night against Columbus, but the Finnish defensive star should return relatively quickly from his upper-body injury. Heiskanen is fourth on his team with eight assists and has 11 points (three goals, eight assists) in 15 games. Trey Taylor is expected to replace Heiskanen in the lineup, while Thomas Harley will move to the first power-play unit, increasing his fantasy value.

New York Islanders forward Mathew Barzal (knee) participted in Wednesday's practice, Tyler Millen of the Islanders' official site reports. He's been out this season with knee inflammation, and this was the first time he had joined the team for practice. Barzal wore a non-contract jersey, indicating he still needs some work before he's ready for his season debut. Last season, Barzal missed only one game and put up 72 points (19 goals, 53 assists). He's one of the Islanders' most consistent offensive players, making him a player worth watching for fantasy managers.

Pittsburgh Penguins forward Evgeni Malkin (lower body) could return to the lineup on Thursday against Boston, Dan Kingerski of Pittsburgh Hockey Now reports. The veteran star has been dealing with a lower-body injury and sat out Tuesday's loss to Vegas. But Malkin participated fully in Wednesday's practice, suggesting he will be available to return against Boston. So far, Malkin has been close to averaging a point per game, tallying six goals and five assists in 11 appearances. Andrei Kuzmenko figures to be the odd man out if Malkin is cleared to play.