B's winger Phil Kessel underwent successful surgery on his left shoulder at Massachusetts General Hospital yesterday to repair a torn rotator cuff and labrum. Dr. Peter Asnis and Dr. J.P. Warner performed the procedure. Recovery and rehab will take 4-6 months, and Kessel is not expected to be ready for the start of the 2009-10 season.Kessel was injured against Columbus March 10 when he was checked into the boards by defenseman Jan Hejda.
In 70 regular-season games, Kessel scored a team-best 36 goals and added 24 assists for 60 points, a career high. Kessel scored six goals and had five assists in 11 playoff games. Kessel was the first Bruin to undergo offseason surgery. David Krejci is scheduled to have an operation on his right hip June 4.
Andrew Ference is expected to have groin surgery next month.
Kessel, a restricted free agent, is due a significant raise to his $850,000 entry-level base salary. General manager Peter Chiarelli said Kessel's surgery should not affect contract negotiations. However, if the Bruins consider trading Kessel, rival GMs may try to float lowball offers because of the procedure.
Kessel, a restricted free agent, is due a significant raise to his $850,000 entry-level base salary. General manager Peter Chiarelli said Kessel's surgery should not affect contract negotiations. However, if the Bruins consider trading Kessel, rival GMs may try to float lowball offers because of the procedure.
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