It is being reported by several media outlets that Winnipeg defenseman Dustin Byfluglien has gone under the knife to repair damage from a high ankle sprain suffered late last season. What, exactly, this might mean for the potential return of the 34-year-old remains to be seen. However, if he does decide to comeback to the Jets, it will be January now before he can return due to the recovery time from the operation.
Byfuglien did not participate in the Jets' training camp and has not taken part in any games this season. It was initially reported that he was contemplating his NHL future, as he had "lost his love for the game." According to TSN Insider Bob McKenzie, it's believed that one of the reasons Byfuglien opted not to play this season is because his ankle was so troublesome. However, per McKenzie "That begs the question, why not report to Winnipeg training camp, go on injured reserve, rehab it or get surgery or whatever and get paid to do so?"
McKenzie speculates that the surgery may open the door for Byfuglien's return at some point, but stresses it's hard to tell as the blueliner is not forthcoming on any personal information. Winnipeg's management has stated they are willing to give the veteran all the time he needs to make a decision, although the team could certainly use his help because of a young, inexperienced back end. Winnipeg did suspend Byfuglien for failing to report to training camp, although this was more a paper move in order to clear his salary from the books while he decides whether he wants to return.
Only one person can answer that and, as we know, Byfuglien isn't too forthcoming on personal info. In any case, Byfuglien getting the surgery may, and I stress the word may, open the door to return at some point. That would be contingent on when or if he feels well. We shall see.— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) October 31, 2019
It's believed one of the biggest factors why Byfuglien opted not to play this season is because his ankle was so troublesome. That begs the question, why not report to WPG training camp, go on injured reserve, rehab it or get surgery or whatever and get paid to do so?— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) October 31, 2019
Only one person can answer that and, as we know, Byfuglien isn't too forthcoming on personal info. In any case, Byfuglien getting the surgery may, and I stress the word may, open the door to return at some point. That would be contingent on when or if he feels well. We shall see.— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) October 31, 2019
