From TSN’s Bob McKenzie:
CGY expected to clarify today but sounds as tho shoulder surgery is more likely than not for Sam Bennett. If so, he'll be out months.
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) October 7, 2014
Not doing surgery on Bennett is apparently a possibility, as in rest and rehab, but long-term best interests for recovery may be surgery.
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) October 7, 2014
In any case, Bennett not likely to be playing for awhile and he won't be a consideration for Canada's national junior team.
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) October 7, 2014
Bennett was injured on Sept. 26 during a preseason game in Vancouver. That he’ll be out for an extended period of time is tough luck for the talented 18-year-old, who’s already had to answer questions about his strength after being unable to do a pull-up at the combine.
Apparently, Bennett, the fourth overall pick in the 2014 draft, was hesitant to let the Flames know how badly he was hurting.
“He wants to be on the ice. He wants to play for us. So it’s a normal reaction,” coach Bob Hartley said, per the Calgary Sun. “At the same time we wish that we could have addressed or at least find out more about his issue earlier. Hey, the young man showed again his character. That’s why he’s going to be a great player for us.”