The following is a press release from the Arizona Coyotes organization:
GLENDALE — Coyotes goalie Mike Smith underwent successful surgery on a core muscle injury on Tuesday morning in Philadelphia and will be sidelined for 8-10 weeks.
Smith had a similar injury and surgery in 2004 while he was with the Dallas Stars.
“We expect him back and 100 percent healthy, hopefully before the end of the season,” General Manager Don Maloney said.
Through 494 National Hockey League games, 33-year-old netminder has a GAA of 2.69, a SV% of .912, and 28 shutouts. He has played a total of 247 with the Coyotes, dating back to the 2011-12 campaign (which was also his strongest season to date, with a GAA and SV% of 2.21 and .930 respectively).
In his absence, former Tampa Bay Lightning goaltender Anders Lindback will take his place.
The following is a press release from the Coyotes organization:
GLENDALE – Anders Lindback is being asked to replace Mike Smith as the Coyotes starting goalie while Smith recovers from core muscle surgery over the next two months or more.
“Obviously that’s not what we hoped for and hopefully he’ll get back quick here, but it’s a big opportunity for me and something you work hard for,” Lindback said on Tuesday, moments after the team announced Smith’s status. “I just want to make the most of it and get out there every game and try to help this team get as many points as we can.”
Asked if or how his approach would change as the starter, Lindback said: “You’ve got to have the same mindset and just compete every day and try to get better.”
Head Coach Dave Tippett said he is confident Lindback can thrive as the team’s starter.
Lindback, 27, a .905 SV% and 2.84 GAA through 123 NHL games. He has spent time with the Lightning, Coyotes and Nashville Predators throughout his career.
The Coyotes currently sit in a playoff position, placing 2nd in the Pacific Division, 8th in the Western Conference, and 19th overall.
Update: Mike Smith had a core muscle injury. He underwent successful surgery today. Estimated 8-10 weeks recovery. pic.twitter.com/IdMbIvqWhn
— Arizona Coyotes (@ArizonaCoyotes) December 15, 2015
