Staal will miss Thursday's game against the Penguins due to an illness, Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News reports.

EDGE Analysis

Staal's departure shouldn't rattle too many fantasy leagues, but for the few out there that do have a share, it's worth noting that the veteran will at least miss Thursday's contest due to the issue. He does have 13 total points (11 assists) on the campaign, but much of his value comes in leagues that use blocked shots (97) as a stat, plus the fact that he logs nearly 20 minutes of ice time on average. Dylan McIlrath draws into the lineup in his place, but provides even less fantasy upside, while Staal's next chance to play now comes Friday against the Capitals.