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Ekman-Larsson suffers lower-body injury vs. Sharks, will be re-evaluated today

Philadelphia Flyers v Arizona Coyotes

GLENDALE, AZ - OCTOBER 15: Oliver Ekman-Larsson #23 of the Arizona Coyotes during the NHL game against Philadelphia Flyers at Gila River Arena on October 15, 2016 in Glendale, Arizona. The Coyotes defeated the Flyers 4-3 in overtime. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

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The Arizona Coyotes lost to the San Jose Sharks in preseason action Saturday. What will matter more is the status of defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson.

According to reports, Ekman-Larsson suffered a lower-body injury during overtime and had to be helped off the ice.

“He will get re-evaluated tomorrow — lower body,” said head coach Rick Tocchet, per Arizona Sports. “See what happens tomorrow. I don’t think he will practice tomorrow.”

At 26 years of age, Ekman-Larsson is a huge piece of a rebuilding Coyotes team and, based on previous comments from general manager John Chayka, is expected to be heavily relied upon on the blue line this season.

It’s also expected that he will be named the new Coyotes captain, taking over the leadership role from Shane Doan.