On Saturday, Kings left wing Tanner Pearson got word he would be among the six rookies taking part in the skills competition at the All-Star game this month in Columbus, Ohio.
On Tuesday, he was in surgery.
Pearson required the procedure after breaking his left leg in the second period against the Winnipeg Jets when he crashed into the end boards. Kings assistant general manager Rob Blake thought that Pearson would require three months of rehabilitation. Earlier Kings Coach Darryl Sutter said, via email, that they would have a better timeline from the doctors Wednesday.
Initially, the Kings were not sure whether Pearson would need surgery, but he saw a specialist Monday. An approximate timetable of three months projects to the first round of the NHL playoffs. The Kings complete the regular season on April 11 at home against the San Jose Sharks.
Pearson’s rookie season had started brightly. He was named the league’s rookie of the month in October before slowing in November and December. In 42 games, he had 12 goals and 16 points.
His spot in the skills competition will be taken by Montreal forward Jiri Sekac, who has recorded 15 points in 34 games.
Pearson’s linemate Tyler Toffoli was diagnosed with mononucleosis Friday. Toffoli skated Tuesday and Sutter said, “so that’s encouraging.”
KINGS VS. NEW JERSEY DEVILS
When: 7:30 p.m. Wednesday.
On the air: TV: FS West; Radio: 790.
Etc.: The Devils are making their only regular-season appearance at Staples Center, but the ageless Jaromir Jagr won’t be on hand. Jagr, 42, has the flu, as does teammate Tuomo Ruutu, and both players did not make the trip to Los Angeles.
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