Alexander Khovanov Undergoes Surgery To Remove Tumor

The Minnesota Wild won’t have Alexander Khovanov in their lineup for the upcoming NHL Prospect Tournament, as they have announced the young forward underwent surgery last Friday to remove a benign bone tumor (Osteoid Osteoma) in his left leg. Khovanov is expected to miss four to six weeks, likely meaning he’ll miss his chance to take part in any of NHL training camp.

The 19-year old was selected in the third round in 2018 and experienced a breakout season for Moncton of the QMJHL in 2018-19. Scoring 74 points in 64 games, the Russian forward was impressive at both ends of the rink and is an exciting prospect for the Wild to look forward to. He is expected to return for a final year of junior with the Wildcats.

Minnesota will have an impressive group on the ice at the Prospect Tournament which takes place in Traverse City, Michigan between September 6-10. Nico Sturm, Ivan Lodnia, Will Bitten and Mat Robson will be among the players featured there for the Wild. They will take on teams from the Columbus Blue Jackets, Dallas Stars and New York Rangers organizations in the Ted Lindsay Division.