Coyotes Star Forward Out 4-6 Months

On Thursday, the Arizona Coyotes announced that forward Clayton Keller will miss four-to-six months following successful surgery to repair a fractured leg. The good news is he's expected to make a full recovery. Keller who was having a strong year despite his team's struggles sees his season ending off a crazy injury.

INJURY UPDATE: Coyotes forward Clayton Keller underwent successful surgery last night to repair a fractured leg. Keller is doing well and is expected to make a full recovery. He will be out 4-6 months. pic.twitter.com/DQbtv01tfF
— Arizona Coyotes (@ArizonaCoyotes) March 31, 2022

Keller sustained the injury on Wednesday night during the Coyotes 5-2 win over the San Jose Sharks, when he crashed hard into the boards feet first at full speed. When watching the play, it seemed almost evident his leg was broken and now we have the confirmation. *If you are squeamish watching the video below could be tough.

Here is how #Yotes forward Clayton Keller got hurt pic.twitter.com/BhuhdRNybi
— SJSharksNews  (@SJSharksNewsIG) March 31, 2022

The Coyotes who are last in the Western Conference and tied for last in the league with the Montreal Canadiens, must now play their final 14 games without their leading scorer. While, this is a tough blow for the Coyotes, it could however help their lottery odds to get the first overall pick at this year's upcoming draft being without their star player.

In 67 games this season, Keller led the way with 28 goals and 63 points as well as a +2 rating on one of the worst teams in the league. He was also on pace to eclipse his career high of 65 points during his rookie campaign in the 2017-18 season. He also represented the Coyotes at this year's all-star weekend. The next closest in points on the Coyotes this season is Nick Schmaltz who has 47.

As well as missing the rest of this season, it is also possible he could miss all of training camp and the beginning of next season. This is the first big injury of Keller's career as he has not missed a game for the Coyotes in five years prior to fracturing his leg.

The Coyotes will continue their season on Friday against the Anaheim Ducks where puck drop will be around 7:30 MT.