The Winnipeg Jets placed rookie forward Patrik Laine on injured reserve on Friday, retro-active to Jan. 7.
In a corresponding move they called up defenceman Julian Melchiori from their AHL affiliate, the Manitoba Moose.
Laine suffered a concussion after a massive hit from Buffalo Sabres defenceman Jake McCabe during the third period of their game on Saturday.
This puts Laine’s stellar season on hold for the foreseeable future. In 42 games this year he has recorded 21 goals and 16 assists, putting him at the top of the rookie scoring race.
His move to the injured reserve puts his participation in the NHL All-Star Game in jeopardy after he was named to the team earlier this week.
Melchiori has played in four games with the Jets this season and has been held without a point, posting a minus-three rating.