As the clock ticks down to the beginning of the National Hockey League's 2015-16 campaign, a number of fanbases and fantasy enthusiasts are wondering whether some key players who have been dealing with injury issues during the offseason will be back in time for opening night—and when they'll be ready to perform at 100 percent when they do lace up their skates.
Time can heal many wounds. Today's pro athletes typically work during the offseason on finely tuned schedules that allow them to rest first, then gear up to report for training camp in top condition.
Injuries can throw a wrench into the best-laid plans, however—whether they're long-term issues that date back to last season, the battles of the playoffs or offseason surgeries or mishaps.