General manager David Franke said the Komets “are trying to set a tone” with their first two player signings for next season, forward Matt Firman and defenseman Mathieu Gagnon.FORT WAYNE – Goaltender Nick Boucher had successful surgery on his left hip Thursday, he wrote in a text message.
However, as was the case when he had his right hip operated on over the summer, the damage was worse than doctors hoped and they had to perform microfracture surgery.
The surgery on his left hip wasn’t as extensive as it was on the right hip, but Boucher will have to be on crutches for six weeks as he rehabilitates.
Boucher had cam impingement on both sides – that’s abnormal grinding – and it’s an injury common to goaltenders.
Boucher was selected MVP by his teammates with the Komets last season, and he guided Fort Wayne to his fourth championship in five years with the team.
Not being able to count on his availability this season, the Komets have signed goalie Charlie Effinger and plan to get Kenny Reiter assigned by Bridgeport of the higher-level American Hockey League.
The Komets may try to sign Boucher when, and if, he returns to the ice, depending on their need.
But that will probably not be until January in their first ECHL season.
