Pittsburgh Penguins head coach Mike Sullivan had an unfortunate update today. The update is on an injury, as forward Michael Bunting had surgery to remove his appendix. As of right now, there has been no timetable announced for his return. As we know, a surgery like this will take at least a couple weeks to fully recover from to get back to 100%.
Pittsburgh Penguins Michael Bunting Injury Status
Mike Sullivan announced that Michael Bunting had surgery on Wednesday to remove his appendix.
His timeline for return is currently unknown. pic.twitter.com/KF2WhuSvO6
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) February 27, 2025
Michael Bunting is having a decent season personally. He has 14 goals and 15 assists for 29 points in 58 games, which puts him sixth in team scoring. Moreover, his career-high of 63 points came back in 2021-22 as a member of the Toronto Maple Leafs. That was his first full season in the NHL. So, he has been fairly consistent throughout this season. The Pens will have to make due in the meantime.
Bunting was originally drafted in the fourth round, 117th overall in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft. He’s accumulated 90 goals and 210 points in 326 game since making his debut during the 2018-19 season.
What Does this Mean for Pittsburgh
With the Pens currently sitting in eighth place in the NHL’s Metropolitan Division, this injury update on Michael Bunting is kind of an example of going from bad to worse. They have already had players pop on trade deadline lists, as they have positioned themselves as sellers not buyers. Players like Rickard Rakell and Matt Grzelcyk come to mind as players that could be dealt. Now with Bunting being out, it kind of allows the team to further adjust to the dynamic as sellers. Perhaps showcase potential trade bait a little more. It is disappointing for veterans like Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin, but it is the reality of the business. At this point, they just want a speedy recovery for Bunting.
Main Photo: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
