Uniondale, NY (SportsNetwork.com) - New York Islanders center John Tavares said Tuesday he won't need surgery for the season-ending knee injury he sustained while playing for Team Canada during the Olympics.
Tavares, speaking with media members Tuesday for the first time after his return from Russia, said he expected an eight-week rehabilitation time period.
The Islanders captain was placed on injured reserve Monday after suffering a torn medial collateral ligament and meniscus damage in his left knee. He was hurt during Canada's Olympic quarterfinal win over Latvia last week.
Tavares ranks third in the NHL with 66 points, having compiled 24 goals and 42 assists in 59 games.
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