Josh Norris Making Progress, Potential Early Return from Injury

Josh Norris is showing progress and could return ahead of schedule from an upper-body injury, having participated in Monday's morning skate. This comes after undergoing a third shoulder surgery before turning 25, which raises concerns for fantasy managers. Despite his injury history, Norris has demonstrated significant offensive potential when healthy, recording 30 points in 50 games last year and 88 points (including 35 on the power play) in 124 games over the last three seasons. He also plays with a physical edge, averaging about a hit per game. The Senators are expected to provide him with a top-six role and power-play time if he proves healthy. Norris's potential as a 50-60 point center keeps him on the fantasy radar, especially as he is only 24 years old. He previously scored 35 goals in 66 games in the 2022-23 season, buoyed by a high shooting percentage, and was rewarded with an eight-year, $63.6 million contract. Originally drafted by the Sharks and acquired by Ottawa in the Erik Karlsson trade, Norris was named to the NHL's All-Rookie Team in his freshman campaign. He has also shown promise in the AHL, earning MVP honors with 31 goals and 61 points in 56 games.