In one of those updates that make you cringe, the Edmonton Oilers announced that forward Tyler Pitlick suffered a lacerated spleen during Wednesday’s game against the Calgary Flames.
The Oilers didn’t address this in their tweet, but many believe that the 23-year-old suffered the injury while delivering a hit on the Flames’ Josh Jooris. Pitlick received a two-minute minor for elbowing on the play.
When you get beyond some bitter reactions regarding that check (video isn’t available at this time), the general reaction is that Pitlick has poor luck:
If Pitlick didn't have bad luck he wouldn't have any luck at all. Just one injury after another with him.
— Ryan Batty (@ryan_batty) January 1, 2015
Pitlick has worst luck. Finally starting to settle into regular role in NHL and injured again. This time a lacerated spleen. Brutal. #Oilers
— Jason Gregor (@JasonGregor) January 1, 2015
The Oilers haven’t shared new information about the state of Pitlick, who was the 31st pick of the 2010 NHL Draft. They did recall Anton Lander, though that could have as much to do with other roster situations as it does with Pitlick.
Here’s a little more in that regard:
With Tyler Pitlick out with a lacerated spleen Oilers have a couple of options. Activate Benoit Pouliot and move Matt Fraser to RW...
— Bob Stauffer (@Bob_Stauffer) January 1, 2015
...or have one of Lander or Pinizzotto play RW in Pitlick's spot.
— Bob Stauffer (@Bob_Stauffer) January 1, 2015
One can assume that he’ll be out for some time, marking another setback for a prospect who’s apparently had his fair share of tough breaks. Pitlick had one point (a goal) in 14 games this season for Edmonton.
