Blair Betts' Lengthy Recovery

Blair Betts spoke yesterday to CSN Philly saying:

"It's probably closer to four months before I'm able to play again," "So we'll see what the doctor says in a couple weeks."

-in the Article Betts Could Be Four Monthes From Return by Sarah Baicker.

The injury was sustained during the Eastern Conference Finals last postseason versus Montreal. During a play where he attempted to make a hit but went straight into the boards shoulder first, resulting in a separated shoulder. Betts, however, did not miss a game due to the injury.

Betts received surgery on the injured shoulder this offseason. When receiving surgery on a separated shoulder the estimated time until physical rehab even starts is usually 1 1/2-2 months. Blair got his surgery after the season meaning he will just start rehabbing soon. Skating can usually be resumed in 2 monthes, but contact cannot be resumed for around 4 months.

With Betts being out until around November this frees up cap space (700K) and roster space (4th center). Darroll Powe (RFA) and the Flyers are in contract talks right now.

Betts is an excellent penalty killer and the Flyers best defensive forward. The 30 year old also added 8 goals and 10 assists last season. Blair Betts' best play may be away from the puck however, he skates from beginning to end on every shift an is a masterful forechecker. Also a great faceoff man, Betts will be hard to replace for a few months.