With training camp opening on Thursday, the Flyers were dealt a devastating blow on Monday.
According to Flyers insider Anthony SanFilippo, centermen Sean Couturier will miss significant time to start the season after suffering a herniated disc in his back during strength and conditioning drills last week. The news comes just one week after Couturier deemed himself healthy and ready to go for camp.
Couturier, 29, only appeared in just 29 games last season because of a back injury that required surgery. Now, the Flyers number one center finds himself in all too familiar situation again. It’s safe to assume that any slim chance the team has to offer up a competitive season hinges on whether Couturier can return to a high level. Philadelphia has Kevin Hayes, Morgan Frost and Patrick Brown at the center position currently. Scott Laughton would likely move from left wing to center if Couturier is out a prolonged amount of time.
Conversation will now revolve around if in fact Couturier will need another procedure done. According to Frank Servalli of Daily face-off, the organization hopes that Couturier’s back will heal in 6-8 weeks’ time. However, if it doesn’t, surgery would be required.
Phired Up will have more on this developing story as more information becomes available.
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