Tomas Hertl Set to Undergo Knee Surgery: Expected Absence Looms for San Jose Sharks Star
Tomas Hertl is set to be sidelined for an extended period, according to an announcement by the San Jose Sharks. The team revealed that their standout player and leading scorer will undergo surgery to address loose cartilage in his left knee.
While the specific timeline remains undetermined, San Jose Sharks GM Mike Grier stated in a team press release, “He is expected to miss a minimum of several weeks but the exact timetable is still to be determined based on the findings of the procedure and his rehabilitation,” San Jose Sharks GM Mike Grier said in a team press release. “We will monitor his progress during the rehab process and provide an update on his status at a later date.”
The timing of this development is noteworthy, considering Hertl’s recent participation in the All-Star Game in Toronto on Feb. 3. However, he did miss the two games preceding the break.
Quinn said Hertl’s injury was re-aggravated by the check he took from Buffalo’s Henri Jokiharju before the break. #SJSharks
— Curtis Pashelka (@CurtisPashelka) February 12, 2024
Hertl explained, “I have been experiencing soreness in my left knee on and off this season. After speaking with doctors and our medical staff earlier this year, it was clear that the injury was not going to get any worse, and I could continue to play through it, including attending the NHL All-Star Weekend in Toronto.” He added, “After returning from Toronto and having additional conversations with my family and our team medical staff over the last week, I made the decision to have this procedure done now so that I can return to 100% as soon as possible.”
Grier supported Hertl’s decision, stating, “Due to the nature of this injury, the Sharks were completely comfortable with Tomas’ decision to participate in the All-Star Weekend, and we respect his decision to have this procedure done now.”
With a 14-32-5 record, the San Jose Sharks currently rank as the second-worst team in the NHL. Losing Hertl may not be as detrimental given their standing, potentially influencing their chances of securing the top pick in the 2024 Draft.
This marks Hertl’s second surgery on his left knee, adding to his history of knee troubles. Past procedures include surgeries on his right MCL and PCL in December 2013, a minor procedure on his right knee in November 2016, and surgery on his torn left MCL and PCL in February 2020. Fortunately, this upcoming surgery appears more akin to his 2016-17 procedure, which sidelined him for two months.
Expressing optimism, Hertl stated, “I look forward to returning to the ice and getting back with my teammates as soon as I can.”
