General manager Brian MacLellan revealed Volpatti (neck) underwent spinal fusion surgery recently and is not yet cleared for contact, Alex Prewitt of The Washington Post reports.

General manager Brian MacLellan revealed Volpatti (neck) underwent spinal fusion surgery recently and is not yet cleared for contact, Alex Prewitt of The Washington Post reports.

Analysis:

MacLellan said Volpatti was skating well, but they aren't yet ready for him to take full practices with the team just yet. Given the competition for fourth line spots due to standout training camp performances by Michael Latta and Chris Brown, Volpatti will have his work cut out for him to make the team even if he is healthy by camp's end. In any case, his offensive shortcomings combined with the hurdles in making the roster make Volpatti a risky choice even in deep leagues.