NHL All-Star Game: Tage Thompson, an uncertain case

BETTING À DAY

One of the National Hockey League's (NHL) biggest surprises of the season, giant forward Tage Thompson may have to skip the All-Star Game.

The Buffalo Sabers center suffered an upper body injury and his condition will be reassessed daily.

The 25-year-old Thompson was invited for the first time to his career at the annual classic featuring the crème de la crème of the Bettman circuit. The 6'6″, 220 lb athlete may have been a late bloomer, but he's quickly become one of the most electrifying players in the NHL.

In 49 games this season, he has already scored 34 goals and as many assists. All on a roster that sits outside of the playoff picture in the Eastern Conference.

Thompson ranks third in the NHL in goals and fifth in points.

Another star Arizona native, Auston Matthews, has already withdrawn from the All-Star Game, which will be held in Sunrise. He will be replaced by Florida Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov.

Beniers sidelined

Calder Trophy favorite , rookie Matty Beniers will also have to miss his turn due to an injury.

The young center of the Seattle Kraken is impressive in his first year in the circuit, he who has collected 36 points in 47 games.

He will be replaced by Vegas Golden Knights forward Chandler Stephenson. The former Washington Capitals amassed 44 points in 51 games this season.

The Kraken will therefore be the only team that will not be represented in the All-Star Game.