BLOG: Nasreddine Provides Updates on Hischier, Vatanen

Devils interim head coach Alain Nasreddine gave the latest update on forward Nico Hischier and defenseman Sami Vatanen, both of whom have been out of the lineup since last Tuesday's game against Montreal with lower-body injuries.

"He didn't skate this morning. It's still pretty painful," Nasreddine said of Sami Vatanen.

Vatanen had skated on Saturday, which was a promising sign, though Nasreddine was quick to say that him not being out there today isn't necessarily a setback.

"Pre-game skates aren't that intense so he was able to do that," Nasreddine noted. "Today was not much improvement from two days ago. It's not that serious, just a matter of time."

Hischier did not skate on Saturday but did find himself on the ice today, though not with the team.

"He skated this morning so that's a good sign. Nothing long term, just see how he progresses but he's inching closer."