A former NHL trainer familiar with Hertl's type of injury told CSNCalifornia.com that a best-case scenario for Hertl's return would be approximately 12 weeks, but he'll likely miss six-to-nine months.
Analysis:
The trainer, who was not named in the report, has not treated Hertl and the Sharks haven't provided a timetable for his return, but it sounds like the 20-year-old is in danger of missing the rest of the season. Hertl underwent surgery to repair damage to the MCL and PCL ligaments in his right knee Tuesday. NHL team are not required to disclose injury information, so Hertl's official status may be in limbo for a while yet, but he likely won't be able to start weight-bearing exercises for six-to-eight weeks.
