Dallas Stars forward Jamie Benn underwent surgery to repair a core muscle injury, the team announced on Friday.
Benn is expected to require six weeks recovery from the procedure, which he underwent in Philadelphia on Thursday as first reported by Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News.
The one-time Art Ross Trophy winner should be ready to begin the 2016-17 season, although Stars GM Jim Nill noted Benn’s status for the 2016 World Cup of Hockey will be evaluated at a later date in an official team release.
“Jamie Benn underwent surgery to repair a core muscle injury on Thursday, July 14 at the Vincera Institute in Philadelphia, PA.,” Nill said. “His operation, performed by Dr. Bill Meyers, went as planned. His full recovery time is expected to be six weeks, putting him on schedule to be ready for the 2016-17 season. Jamie will be re-evaluated after the six-week rehabilitation process, at which time, his availability for the World Cup of Hockey will be determined.”
Benn set new career-highs in goals and points in 2015-16. The 26-year-old finished second in NHL scoring with 89 points and third in goals with 41. The Stars captain has registered 192 goals and 448 points in 508 career games.
The native of Victoria, B.C., was a first-time Hart Trophy nominee in 2015-16 and earned his second consecutive nomination for the Ted Lindsay Award.
Benn was among the first 16 players named to Team Canada’s roster for the World Cup of Hockey in March.
The Stars selected Benn in the fifth round (129th overall) at the 2007 NHL Draft.
