Aces Update: JJ, Ryznar Headed To IR

The numbers game just became more simplified for the Alaska Aces -- wingers Justin Johnson and Jason Ryznar are each headed for the injured reserve list.

Each player broke his hand in Thursday night's 2-1 exhibition victory over the Kalamazoo Wings at Sullivan Arena.

Johnson broke his left hand in a first-period fight and Ryznar broke his left hand blocking a shot while killing a penalty in the third period.

Aces coach Brent Thompson said Johnson is expected to be out six weeks and Ryznar is expected to be out 3-5 weeks.

Also, the Aces released rookie defenseman Shaden Moore.

By my count, the Aces now have 13 healthy forwards, 9 healthy defensemen and three healthy goaltenders for a total of 25 players (not counting JJ and Ryznar). They need to be down to 23 by season's start next Friday.

For more, check out the dead-trees edition of the ADN on Saturday morning.