Dallas Stars confirm forward Steve Ott out with back problem, no timeline for return-NHL News
The Dallas Stars are hoping that the illness of forward, Steve Ott, is not prolonged, which could possibly make their journey to the playoffs harder.
Ott did not join the squad for the game against the San Jose Sharks on Thursday, March 08, 2012, due to back spasms. The game was won by Stars with four to three (4-3) goal margin.
It is unclear when the player will be back to join the team again.
Meanwhile, the management has hoped that his back issues are not the case of a delayed recovery, which, with the second phase of the 2011-2012 National Football League (NHL) season just around the corner, will not bode well into their hopes of qualifying
for the postseason.
The forward’s illness came to the limelight for the first time on Thursday morning when he did not show up for skating along with his teammates. He missed the entire Thursday’s practice and training session.
The coach, Glen Gulutzan, confirmed the player was confronted with the back problems. He further said that Ott had been fighting the illness during the three games they played on their road trip to Western Canada. The player somehow managed to play in all
those games, the coach added.
Gulutzan did not offer any details regarding whether the player has aggravated the problem while playing the last three games despite carrying the illness. Also, he refrained from outlining the timeline for his recovery and return to the side.
There is no comment from either the player or his agent that could determine his latest status and set a date for his possible comeback.
It is for the second time in the current season that the player has missed a game or more due to a health issue. He remained out of the squad for six consecutive games in November 2011 with a lower-body injury.
Since coming back from the injury he had suffered earlier in the season, he played 50 consecutive games for Stars. He is now set to miss a few more with emergence of the latest problem.
With about 15 more games to go in the regular season, Stars are hoping about his earliest possible return. The situation will become clearer on Friday, March 09, 2012, and if the player is able to make it to training and practice session, Stars need not
worry.
The management, in the meantime, has not confirmed his immediate replacement, which will certainly be the only choice left for them if the player does not come back within the stipulated time.
Altogether, Ott has played 66 games for Stars this season, and has recorded 10 goals and 33 points. His performance has remained significant to most wins of the team.
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