Montreal Canadiens goaltender Carey Price played in just five games last season due to reoccurring knee issues.
The most recent update on the six-time All-Star's status didn't add any clarity as to win he'll return, if ever, to the ice.
On Thursday, Canadiens general manager Kent Hughes said the latest news on Price's knee was "pretty discouraging."
Kent Hughes says news on Carey Price's knee is discouraging. Don't expect him available at start of the season. Possibly won't be able to return at all this season.
— Eric Engels (@EricEngels) August 18, 2022
Price missed most of the 2021-2022 season after undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery last July. The 35-year-old made his season debut in April, but knee issues arose again at the end of the season.
Hughes said Price's received a shot in his knee this summer but hasn't shown improvement during rehab.
"At this point, we don't expect Carey to be available for the start of the season, quite frankly I don't know if there's a path for Carey to return this season through the rehab process," Hughes told reporters Thursday.
When asked about the possibility of another surgery for the former Hart Trophy winner, Hughes said that was a question for Price. But Hughes added that he didn't believe Price would be able to return with rehab alone.
Price still has four seasons remaining on an eight-year, $84 million contract.
Last season, Price went 1-4-0, finishing with a 3.63 GAA and .878 SV% in five starts for the Canadiens.
Drafted fifth overall by Montreal in 2005, Price has compiled a record of 361-261-79 with a 2.51 GAA and .917 SV%.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!