Seattle Kraken forward Jordan Eberle is set to return to the lineup Saturday vs. the Florida Panthers following a 40 game absence the team announced.
Eberle suffered a rare pelvic injury in a November 14th game against the Chicago Blackhawks, one that few other hockey players had experienced before. Given the rarity of his injury, there was no clear timeline for his return to hockey action.
The pelvic muscle affected was more commonly seen in rugby injuries, leading the Kraken medical staff to consult with personnel from New Zealand’s rugby federation for recovery guidance. After sitting out nearly half the season, the Kraken captain was able to ramp up his on ice activities during the 4 Nations break, skating with Seattle’s AHL squad.
“I think I’m at the point now where I’m battling in practice and moving the way I want to,” Eberle told NHL.com. “Now it just comes down to getting into game action. That’s the only way you can test [your body]. I’ve done everything else up to that point.”
“Obviously, I’ve had over three months off. I feel like I’m in game shape right now, but [it’s about] the timing and getting that aggressiveness back. I think it helps that I’m coming back with the guys after the break, where everyone’s been off for a while as well. I’m hoping that I can get back and just get right back into it.”
The 34 year old has 11 points (6G, 5A) across 17 games this season. Eberle inked a two-year, $9.5 million extension with Seattle in March and his absence has been felt both on and off the ice for a Kraken squad currently sporting a 24-29-4 record.
One season removed from winning the franchise’s first postseason series and advancing to the 2nd round of the Western Conference Playoffs, Seattle has limped along the 2024-25 NHL campaign. The club currently sits well outside the playoff picture at the moment, leading many to believe they will be sellers ahead of the March 7th NHL trade deadline.
Players such as Eberle, and forward Jared McCann could be names on the move if the team fails to turn things around in relatively short order.
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