Ozolinsh Could Face Surgery

TAMPA, Fla. â€”  Defenseman Sandis Ozolinsh has a slightly torn muscle in his right shoulder that may require surgery, a Duck spokesman said.

Ozolinsh was examined by Dr. Ronald Glousman on Monday and will decide whether to undergo surgery, which will keep him out at least 12 weeks, or opt for rehabilitating the shoulder, which will keep him out of the lineup an indefinite period of time, in the next few days.

He will consult with Glousman and Duck trainer Chris Phillips before making his decision.

The loss of Ozolinsh would be a blow to the struggling Ducks.

Besides being their best offensive defenseman, he is adept at handling the puck. The Ducks have been stung repeatedly by turnovers in their own zone.

Ozolinsh was injured against Colorado, which was his first game after sitting out four games because of a ribcage in injury.

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The Ducks will also lose another defenseman for a few days. Niclas Havelid will fly home today to be with his wife, Anna, who is expecting twins. Havelid will miss Wednesday’s game against Carolina.

Havelid said he hoped to rejoin the Ducks for Sunday’s game at Detroit.

-- Chris Foster