Juraj Slafkovsky back to finish the season with the Laval Rocket? The verdict is already in and we shouldn't get our hopes up

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MarcO
January 29, 2023 (11:55 PM)

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When it was learned that Juraj Slafkovsky would be out for three months with a left knee injury, it was quickly concluded that his first NHL season was most likely over.

Which is a real shame under the circumstances, because despite a rather modest 10 points in 39 games, you never want to see an 18 year old get set back by an injury at such a young age. Talk to a guy named Nolan Patrick.

However, as Marc-Olivier Cook reports, many Canadiens fans are hoping that the first pick in the last draft can be returned in time should the Laval Rocket make the playoffs in the AHL.

However, Rocket game writer Anthony Marcotte didn't have good news for those who would have liked to see the Slovak forward in the uniform of the Canadiens' club-school.

"I'm getting a lot of questions about Juraj Slafkovsky's playoff eligibility with the Rocket when he returns. For that to be possible, he would have to be in the Rocket lineup at the deadline. I don't think the CH could do that because of his injury."

So that settles that issue. But despite all that, Kent Hughes said at his mid-season media availability last week that it will be important for the Habs to find a way to get him some playing time in the spring if he's healthy. (possibly at the World Hockey Championships, for example)

Until then, it will be a tough time for the young man and that Slafkovsky needs to keep the enthusiasm he has shown since the beginning of the season.

But, could this playing time actually come at the next World Hockey Championship, which will take place next May?

It is possible, as Slafkovsky should be recovered from his injury and for the sake of his development. He will have to play quality hockey by next season.