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Predators defenseman Francois Bouillon suffers setback in concussion recovery

Nashville Predators v Anaheim Ducks

ANAHEIM, CA - JANUARY 05: Francis Bouillon #51 of the Nashville Predators skates against the Anaheim Ducks at the Honda Center on January 5, 2011 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Jeff Gross/Getty Images)

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While concussions aren’t being talked about so much with the season being over and the new one not quite upon us yet, some players are still doing their part to bounce back from injury last year. One of those players is Predators defenseman Francis Bouillon. Bouillon suffered a concussion back in January against the Blackhawks thanks to a wicked hit from Troy Brouwer and missed the rest of the season with the ailment.

Bouillon has spent the better part of his summer working out to get back in shape and try to return to the Preds lineup in time for the start of this season. Those efforts may be delayed now as Bouillon says he’s suffered a setback in his recovery from the injury.

Bouillon told Richard Labbe of Cyberpresse in Quebec about how he’s had to slow down his recovery efforts (translated link) thanks to having headaches once again. Bouillon’s (poorly) translated quote from the site tells us that with it being so long since he was hurt, he’s concerned for not just next season but for his career as well.

“That’s the trouble with concussions, it’s more complicated than a knee injury, we never know when you will return. It’s been six months since I did not play. This is worrying, and I’m getting impatient. I do not want to talk about retirement, but of course I still think a little. At least the leaders of the Predators do not put me in pressure. They fully understand my situation. “

The Predators are good for not stressing that Bouillon hurry back from such a potentially debilitating injury. One thing the Predators do have on their team is depth along the blue line. With the likes of Shea Weber and Ryan Suter leading the way and having guys like Jonathon Blum, Kevin Klein, as well as a potential future star in Ryan Ellis they’ve got guys to fill out the roster. Not having Bouillon’s veteran leadership and physical play, however, will be tough to replace.

Bouillon joins a list of other players looking to get back next season, or at all, from concussions. Most famously there’s Sidney Crosby who continues to get himself back into form in Pittsburgh. Boston’s Marc Savard continues to lay low after suffering another concussion back in February and his future is very much in doubt. David Perron in St. Louis is still trying to fight his way back to the ice after a blindside hit from Joe Thornton ended his season.

Concussions may not be getting much press during the offseason, but their effects are certainly being felt with numerous teams today and Bouillon’s setback is a reminder of how hard and perilous it can be.