Update: John Shannon of Sportsnet is reporting that the NHL will have Joffrey Lupul see an independent doctor in order to confirm that he is injured and eligible for long-term injured reserve. The decision stems from Lupul’s recent instagram post claiming that he is healthy. The NHL made the decision, despite the fact that Lupul did not officially appeal the diagnosis or seek his own second opinion.
Hearing,even though Joffrey Lupul is not seeking a 2nd opinion, the NHL Is going to have him medically evaluated by an independent doctor.
— John Shannon (@JShannonhl) September 21, 2017
Here is our earlier story.
Joffrey Lupul Apologizes to Toronto Maple Leafs, Will Not Seek Second Opinion
Injured Toronto Maple Leafs forward Joffrey Lupul made headlines last week when he appeared to question the team’s doctor’s opinion that he could not play hockey, and their designation that he be placed on long term injured reserve.
On Wednesday, Lupul backtracked on those comments. He posted on his official twitter account that he would not be seeking a second opinion to challenge the Leafs diagnosis. He also apologized to the team for the controversy that had been created.
“I responded earlier this week to some negative comments on Instagram. It was an inappropriate response, and I deleted it, but I take full responsibility. It’s been extremely tough not being able to play over the past 1.5 years. I will not be seeking a second opinion, but I hope one day to be able to get back on the ice. I apologize to the media, fans, Leafs organization, and most of all my teammates for this unneeded distration,” Lupul posted.
Lupul posted a photo on Instagram on Sunday of what appeared to be him snowboarding, with the comments, “Haha failed physical? They cheat, everyone lets them,” and “I’m ready.. Just awaiting the call.” He later deleted the comments.
Career
Lupul has not played in the NHL since mid-way through the 2015-16 season. He is in the final year of a five-year, $26.525 million dollar contract he signed with the team. The deal carries an AAV of $5.25 million, and he is due $3.75 million this season.
The 33-year-old right wing has played in 701 career games for the Leafs, Anaheim Ducks and Philadelphia Flyers. He has scored 205 goals and 215 assists for 420 career NHL points. Lupul has also added 17 goals and 27 points in 46 career playoff games. He has a history of a chronic back condition, though he missed the remainder of the 2015-16 season following surgery to fix a hernia.
The deadline for Lupul to seek a second opinion through the NHLPA is Thursday.
Main Photo:
Embed from Getty Images
