John Robert Eichel is an American professional ice hockey center with the National Hockey League’s (NHL) Vegas Golden Knights.
Jack Eichel, a forward for the Vegas Golden Knights, underwent disk replacement surgery on Friday and is anticipated to make a full recovery, according to the organization. The Golden Knights reported that the surgery was a success and will provide additional information regarding Eichel’s return “when appropriate.”
Greg Wyshynski of ESPN reported on Thursday that Eichel was scheduled to undergo surgery at the Rocky Mountain Spine Clinic and would stay in Denver for three weeks for observation before completing the majority of his rehabilitation in Las Vegas.
Wyshynski adds that Eichel’s anticipated recuperation period is three months, meaning he could return as early as mid-February. Eichel, who was traded from the Buffalo Sabres to the Vegas Golden Knights last week, thanked the team on Monday for permitting him to endure the procedure that caused a rift with his former team. The Sabres wanted Eichel to endure neck fusion surgery, but the star forward preferred to have his disk replaced.
According to Sportsnet, the 25-year-old stated that he hopes the NHL and NHLPA would reexamine its policies granting teams complete authority over a player’s medical treatment.
“I think my situation brought to light some things that could be changed, and I hope they are in the future,” Eichel added. “I don’t necessarily agree with the team having complete control over medical treatment.” “I believe it should be a collaborative effort.”
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Before Tuesday’s game against the Seattle Kraken at T-Mobile Arena, Eichel was presented for the first time as a Golden Knight. When he returns from injury, he is projected to be the team’s main center.
The Boston University product was drafted second overall by the Sabres in 2015 and spent six seasons with the team. However, since March 7, he has not performed due to a neck injury.
Before the 2017-18 season, Eichel inked a new eight-year, $80 million contract extension with Buffalo. He will not become a free agent until the conclusion of the 2025-26 season. At the age of 17, Eichel was dubbed “the new face of American hockey,” and he was seen as part of a new generation of hockey talent.
Eichel received the 2015 Hobey Baker Award, which is given to the best men’s ice hockey player in the National Collegiate Athletic Association. He was the second freshman to receive the award; Paul Kariya won in 1993.