Predators G Rinne's recovery from infection delayed 2 weeks
Predators goalie Pekka Rinne's recovery from a hip infection will be at least two weeks slower with doctors recommending Rinne continue limiting his activity.
The Predators had hoped Rinne could pick up his rehabilitation Friday. In a statement posted on the team's website, the Predators said Rinne has not had a setback.
''However, as we have realized and learned throughout this process, the recovery and rehabilitation from a bacterial infection does not involve a specific timetable,'' according to the team's statement. ''It does come with a degree of uncertainty.''
The Predators say every precaution is being taken to manage the bacterial infection with the goal of getting Rinne back to full strength. Rinne is being monitored daily by the team's medical staff.
The two-time Vezina Trophy finalist has been sidelined since he had arthroscopic surgery on his left hip Oct. 24 as a result of a bacterial infection. The infection developed in the same hip that was surgically repaired May 9 following the conclusion of last season.
Since the surgery, Rinne has been taking antibiotics through intravenous fluids. The line was set to be removed Dec. 5, though Rinne was due to continue antibiotics as a precaution.
In nine games this season, Rinne is 4-4-1 with a 2.31 goals-against average and a .917 save percentage.
The Predators have been using Marek Mazanec, who was the NHL's rookie of the month in November, and Carter Hutton, who was the league's third star for last week.
