Flyers D Michael Zotto to have wrist surgery, miss 3-4 months

PHILADELPHIA -- Philadelphia Flyers general manager Ron Hextall said defenseman Michael Del Zotto is expected to be out three to four months after surgery to repair ligament damage in his left wrist.

Hextall said on a conference call Sunday that Del Zotto is scheduled to have surgery in Philadelphia on Friday. Del Zotto would only be able to play again this season if the Flyers make the playoffs.

Del Zotto's injury was a major blow to Philadelphia's playoff hopes. He aggravated his wrist problem Feb. 13 against New Jersey, and Hextall immediately said it was a long-term injury.

The 25-year-old was one of the team's most reliable players, leading in average ice time at 23:24 a game. In 52 games, Del Zotto had four goals and nine assists.