Hurricanes' Fast likely out for season following surgery

*Photo from the Raleigh News and Observer*

   According to an announcement made by the team, Carolina Hurricanes forward Jesper Fast underwent neck surgery in the offseason and is expected to miss the entire season.

   Last season was Fast's 4th season with the Hurricanes after coming over from the New York Rangers. He had 6 goals and 13 assists for 19 points, notching an even 0 rating while averaging 12:36 of ice time per game across 73 games. He didn't play in the postseason as the Hurricanes were eliminated in the second round.

   Fast was originally injured during the Hurricanes' final game of the regular season and missed the team's entire playoff run. He is under contract for $2.4 million this season, the last year of his current two year deal with the Hurricanes. He can become a UFA at the end of the season.

   Being drafted in the 6th round of the 2010 draft, Fast has played for the Hurricanes and Rangers in his career. He has 91 goals and 157 assists for 248 points to his name, averaging 14:29 of ice time while posting a +41 rating in 703 regular season games. He has an additional 14 goals and 13 assists in 80 playoff games.

   With Fast expected to be out for the season, the Hurricanes can place him on LTIR before opening night to become cap compliant. They are currently over the cap after signing star forward Seth Jarvis to an 8 year contract.