Toronto Maple Leafs forward Calle Järnkrok underwent surgery to repair a groin injury and sports hernia, which could keep him out of action for a few months, reports TSN insider Chris Johnston.
Järnkrok has yet to play a single match this season.
Järnkrok took a step back in his rehabilitation earlier this month, necessitating a visit to a specialist.
The 33-year-old from the Czech Republic has scored 10 goals and 11 assists in 52 games with the Maple Leafs in 2023-24, his second season with the organization. Järnkrok has not recorded a point in seven playoff games.
Järnkrok is in the third season of a four-year, $8.4 million contract that pays him an average of $2.1 million per year.
Matthews on leave this week
Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews is expected to miss a seventh consecutive game on Wednesday when the Vegas Golden Knights visit Scotiabank Arena.
After Wednesday’s game, the Leafs will be off until Sunday, when they host the Utah Hockey Club.
Matthews last played on Nov. 3, when the Maple Leafs lost 2-1 in overtime to the Minnesota Wild. Matthews hasn’t skated in almost a week.
“We’re waiting a bit, but his condition is not getting worse, so that’s a good thing. It just takes time. It’s long, but that’s how it is,” commented head coach Craig Berube.
The Maple Leafs have played well with Matthews, posting a 5-1 record, including a 4-3 overtime win over Connor McDavid and the Edmonton Oilers on Saturday.
In 13 games this season, Matthews has scored five goals and collected 11 points.
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