Winnipeg Jets defencemen Dustin Byfuglien missed last night’s game against the Chicago BlackHawks. It is currently uncertain when the thirty-three-year-old will return. He is suffering from concussion symptoms.
Maurice: Byfuglien developed 'a symptom', will be checked out by doctor https://t.co/Z1nNKIiSbj #TSNHockey pic.twitter.com/WwOTxioCN4
— TSN Hockey (@TSNHockey) November 29, 2018
Dustin Byfuglien Injured
Byfuglien was pulled from Tuesday’s game after hitting Pittsburgh Penguins defenceman Jamie Oleksiak. This resulted in the Jets player requiring assistance off the ice. He would later return to the game. Byfuglien did not skate on Wednesday as a precaution. He is not yet ruled out for a concussion but is vaguely stated to be suffering a significant “symptom”.
So far this season, Byfuglien has scored two goals and 15 assists for 17 points to go along with 26 minutes in penalties in 21 games. His possession numbers were 54 percent Corsi-For and a relative Corsi of +3.9.
Over his extensive twelve-year NHL career, the veteran has played for the Chicago Blackhawks, Atlanta Thrashers, and the Jets. He has 175 goals and 336 assists for 511 career points in 848 career NHL games. The Stanley Cup winner was originally drafted by the Blackhawks in the eighth round, 246th overall in the 2003 NHL draft.
Regarding Byfuglien’s injury, head coach Paul Maurice stated before yesterday’s morning skate that “There’s no diagnosis yet on how to go forward,” and is said to need further medical tests.
What This Means for the Future
As an offensive defenceman, the American native will be a big loss for the Jets if this condition becomes longer-term. The veteran has vital experience that will be needed as they head into back to back games against highly offensive teams this weekend. Particularly as fellow defensemen, Joe Morrow is ruled out with an upper-body injury. Which will add pressure to young players like Sami Niku and Cameron Schilling, who will continue to play in the duo’s place for now.
The Jets are currently third in the Western Conference and are tipped to make a genuine impact in the playoffs. It is hoped Byfuglien will return soon.
