​The Ottawa Senators will be without William Eklund for an extended period after the forward suffered an ankle injury against the Philadelphia Flyers.Head coach Travis Green confirmed the injury Friday, although the NHL team has not established a specific timeline for Eklund’s return. The 23-year-old is expected to miss significant time.MORE: Blackhawks’ Frank Nazar faces hearing for hit on Islanders’ Bo HorvatSenators reporter Claire Hanna shared the update on X, citing Green’s comments about the injury.“William Eklund suffered an ankle injury and will be out for an extended period of time,” Hanna wrote. “‘I don’t know exactly how long,’ Travis Green said.”Green also indicated that he does not expect Eklund to require surgery. The forward is expected to return at some point during the regular season, although his recovery timeline remains uncertain.Eklund sustained the injury during Thursday’s 2-1 victory over Philadelphia. He took a hit along the boards from Flyers defenseman Simon Benoit before his left foot became awkwardly tangled.He was unable to put weight on the injured leg and needed assistance leaving the ice.Senators face adjustment without William EklundSan Jose, California, USA; Former San Jose Sharks left wing William Eklund (72) waits at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)Eklund’s absence creates another challenge for Ottawa as the team tries to maintain its early-season momentum.The Senators improved to 3-1-0 with Thursday’s victory. Nick Cousins opened the scoring before Carter Yakemchuk scored the game-winning goal on a power play late in the third period.Linus Ullmark made 28 saves to help Ottawa secure the win.Cousins could receive an increased role while Eklund recovers. His opportunity to contribute becomes more important with the Senators losing a forward for an extended stretch.MORE: Red Wings’ Dylan Larkin reveals why he stepped in to fight for hit on Alex DeBrincatThe absence also leaves Ottawa waiting for more clarity about Eklund’s recovery. Green has not provided a firm return date, meaning the team must prepare to manage without him for now.The Senators host the Nashville Predators on Saturday. They will look to build on their strong start while monitoring Eklund’s progress.For now, avoiding surgery offers some encouragement, but the length of his absence remains the central concern.—Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories with The Big Lead Newsletter —