Mario Lemeiux has been advised by team physicians to undergo a period of rest and rehabilitation for his chronic hip problem, it was announced today by Penguins General Manager Craig Patrick. Lemieux is expected to miss the rest of the season.
In addition, left wing Martin Straka is out of the lineup indefinitely with a facial injury.
Recent tests and evaluations have revealed a chronic tendinitis of Lemieux’s ilio-psoas muscle, a major hip flexor muscle, as well as inflammation of the hip capsule. The doctors have advised Lemieux that continuing to play this season could lead to further damage.
"While I am very disappointed that I can't be in the lineup, I am satisfied that we have identified the problem with my hip," said Lemieux, who has been bothered by hip problems since training camp in September. "The doctors have told me that this period of rest and rehabilitation is necessary so that I can make a full recovery and get back in the lineup next season."
The 36-year-old Lemieux played 24 games for the Penguins this season, recording six goals and 25 assists for 31 points. He underwent surgery to repair torn cartilage in his hip in October.
Straka suffered a broken orbital/sinus bone around his left eye in Wednesday night's game against Los Angeles, it was announced this afternoon. Straka had the bone repaired today and will be out of the Penguins' lineup indefinitely.
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