Boedker, Couture leave practice with minor injuries

In case you really missed freaking out about injuries over this short (but not short enough) off-season, the Sharks have you covered. As reported by the Mercury News’ Paul Gackle, both center Logan Couture and right wing Mikkel Boedker left practice early on Tuesday with minor injuries.

Boedker left first after taking a hit to the face that does not appear serious. Considering his inclusion on the first power play unit at practice today, this is unfortunate timing. Hopefully appearances do not deceive and Boedker will be no worse for wear.

Couture’s injury is a little scarier at first glance. Couture appeared to fall awkwardly and skated off the ice favoring his right leg. Despite head coach Peter DeBoer’s assurances that the injury is not serious, the phrase “we’ve got our fingers crossed” inspires little confidence.

If this were any other player not named Thornton, there would be little about which to be concerned. But when something, anything, happens to limit the availability of a player as important as Couture, who missed 30 games just two seasons ago to a fractured right fibula, and who missed the last nine games of last season with an imploded face, you’ll forgive us if our knuckles are a little whiter than usual.

If there’s any wood nearby you while you read this, do us all a favor and knock on it.