Blackhawks prospect Phillip Danault is expected to miss several months after undergoing hip surgery, the team announced Tuesday.
“Yesterday, Blackhawks forward Phillip Danault underwent left hip arthroscopy performed by Dr. Bryan Kelly in New York City to repair a torn labrum. Danault is expected to be out of hockey-related activity for approximately four months,” said Blackhawks Head Team Physician Dr. Michael Terry.
[MORE: Report: Blackhawks sign Bowling Green D Nolan Valleau]
It's a tough blow for Danault, who appeared to be one of the favorites from a crowded group to crack a roster spot entering training camp in September. The 22-year-old two-way center who models his game after Marcus Kruger got a small taste of the NHL action last year, playing in two games with the Blackhawks, and was looking to stay for good this season.
Now, his path to the NHL has been put on hold.
Danault has spent the last two seasons in the AHL, where he helped guide the Rockford IceHogs to the Calder Cup Playoffs in 2014-15.
[NBC SHOP: Gear up, Blackhawks fans!]
NHL
The former first-round pick in 2011 compiled 38 points (13 goals, 25 assists) in 70 regular-season games last year, and added three goals and two assists in eight postseason contests. His plus-8 rating in the playoffs also led the team.
Danault is in the final year of his entry-level contract.