So Mikey Mo's Out

After undergoing surgery early today for his severed flexor tendon in his wrist, Mike Modano will be out indefinitely. It was pretty much the only negative to come form last night's 2-1 win in Columbus, where his right wrist was lacerated by a skate in the second period. If one were to make a guess, we're looking at somewhere in the vicinity of 2 to 6 months. Pretty wide window, I know, but I'm sure a more specific timeframe will come as doctors follow his recuperation over the coming weeks.

Regardless, the Wings will lose their 3rd line centre for a significant period -- so the question becomes, how will he be replaced?

As with most injuries, Modano's lost ice-time should provide a great opportunity for someone. That someone could well be Justin Abdelkader. I think Abby would make a great 3rd line with Hudler and Cleary. It also presents a temporary reprieve from healthy scratching for Jiri Hudler, Patrick Eaves and Drew Miller. I very purposefully use the word "temporary" because Kris Draper is slated for a return in the next fortnight. At this point, I imagine Drapes would likely rotate with Eaves and Miller and see what happens from there.

Shifting gears, and back onto the main topic, some are suggesting this injury could end the illustrious career of Mike Modano, one of the most decorated Americans to hit an NHL rink. Unfortunately, such a sad thing could happen. If Mo ends up missing the better part of 6 months (or more), it would no doubt be extremely difficult for him to get back into a line-up that is either well into it's Cup-run or worse, eliminated from the competition.

Of course, this is most likely a worst-case scenario for the Michigan-native. I like to think he has a strong chance of being healthy well before the regular season is finished.

Good luck, Mo!