Canucks' Sutter undergoes sports hernia surgery, out 4-6 weeks

The Canucks have announced that they will be without centre Brandon Sutter for at least another month.

Sutter, who was injured in a game against the Columbus Blue Jackets on November 10th, underwent successful sports hernia surgery. His expected recovery is 4-6 weeks.

“Following a period of treatment and evaluation our medical team determined that the best course of action for Brandon was to perform this procedure,” said Canucks GM Jim Benning. “The surgery was successful and we expect a full recovery.”

The Canucks have struggled with Sutter out of the lineup, going 2-5-2 in their last nine games. The 26-year-old was having a decent season offensively, with 8 points (4-4-8) in 16 games, although they miss him most on their penalty kill.

Vancouver has given up at least one power play goal against in 9 of 10 games since Sutter’s injury. The opposition has scored 11 goals on 40 opportunities, which is scintillating 27.5% clip.

Sutter isn’t the only reason for the Canucks’ recent penalty killing struggles – Ryan Miller’s play has contributed to it as well – but the PK is definitely stronger when he’s in the lineup.