VANCOUVER (Reuters) - Toronto defenseman Mike Komisarek will have season-ending shoulder surgery, the Leafs said on Wednesday, delivering another blow to the United States' medal hopes at the Vancouver Winter Olympics.
Komisarek is the second U.S. defenseman in three days to be ruled out of the Olympics with the opening ceremonies less than two weeks away. New Jersey's Paul Martin was ruled out on Monday, saying he had not fully recovered from a broken arm.
"Our team doctors have recommended this after a determined effort to rehab the injury without surgery," said Komisarek in a statement released by the Maple Leafs. "Having this done immediately is the right thing to do for the Leafs.
"I am truly sorry that I will not be able to represent my country at the Olympics."
Komisarek has appeared in 34 games this season picking up three assists.
(Writing by Steve Keating; Editing by Peter Rutherford)
Receive your weekly recap of all the happenings around the world of sports.