The NHL is gearing up for the 2026-27 season, but not everyone is ready to hit the ice just yet. One player who is still healing is Jonathan Huberdeau, a veteran winger who underwent hip resurfacing surgery in March. Huberdeau's recovery has hit a snag, with Flames GM Craig Conroy revealing a setback in his skating progress. This development adds a layer of uncertainty to an already challenging situation for the 33-year-old Huberdeau.
Huberdeau's journey to recovery has been a rollercoaster. After a successful 2022 trade to the Calgary Flames, he suffered a setback in January, leading to the necessary surgery. Hip resurfacing is a risky procedure, and its success rate is low. Only a handful of players, like Patrick Kane, have managed to extend their careers post-surgery, while others, such as Ed Jovanovski and Ryan Kesler, struggled to regain their former glory. The stakes are high for Huberdeau, who is still owed a substantial $52.5 million over the next five years. His performance since joining the Flames has been impressive, with 194 points in 291 games, but the team's offense struggled last season.
Conroy's patience is commendable, as the organization prioritizes Huberdeau's full recovery. The Flames are hoping that a healthy Huberdeau can contribute to their offensive struggles. However, the setback raises questions about his availability for the season opener against Seattle. Conroy's optimistic outlook suggests he'll be close, but the exact timeline remains a mystery.
In other NHL news, the Winnipeg Jets have made some coaching and medical staff changes. Matt Larke joins the NHL staff as a skills coach, bringing his expertise from the Seattle Kraken. On the medical front, Zach Salmonson, previously the head athletic therapist for the Manitoba Moose, has been promoted to massage therapist and assistant athletic therapist for the Jets. Andy Grant and Layne Richardson have also been added to the medical team, with Grant taking on the role of head athletic therapist and Richardson as an assistant.
Meanwhile, the Utica Comets, the New Jersey Devils' AHL affiliate, have a new team president in Adam Pawlick. Pawlick, who has been instrumental in the club's business operations, will now oversee day-to-day duties, including ticket sales, corporate partnerships, marketing, and fan experience. This shift in responsibilities marks a new chapter for the Comets as they prepare for the upcoming season.
These behind-the-scenes changes highlight the intricate workings of the NHL, where player health, coaching staff, and organizational structure all play a crucial role in shaping the league's dynamics. As the season unfolds, fans can expect more twists and turns as teams navigate the challenges of injury, coaching, and organizational shifts.
