Tavares (lower body) told reporters he was expected to miss 3-to-5 weeks, Brian Compton of NHL.com reports.
Analysis:Based on that time frame, Tavares likely would have missed most of the Isles' opening-round series if they had made the playoffs. Instead, the center will focus on getting ready for the 2017-18 campaign and will avoid returning to action too soon. The 26-year-old will likely be the subject of contract rumors and discussions as well this offseason as he heads into the final year of his deal with New York.
