Seattle Kraken forward Jacob Melanson has been ruled out indefinitely after doctors diagnosed an anterior mediastinum hematoma with a vascular pseudoaneurysm, a serious injury sustained during the club’s season-opening win in Calgary.
Key takeaways
- Melanson was hurt in Seattle’s 6-1 victory over the Calgary Flames on Oct. 1.
- The 23-year-old played 9:31 in that game and recorded one shot on goal.
- Seattle announced Saturday that the injury involves a hematoma in the anterior mediastinum and a vascular pseudoaneurysm.
- The Kraken have not set a timetable for his return to the lineup.
- Melanson posted two goals, three assists and 32 penalty minutes in 36 games last season.
Kraken to monitor Melanson through recovery
The injury had initially been listed as an upper-body issue following the opener at the Flames. Further evaluation led to the updated diagnosis, and the Kraken said Melanson will remain under close medical supervision in Seattle.
“Jacob will continue to be evaluated and monitored closely by the medical staff in Seattle throughout the healing process, with a gradual progression toward returning to hockey,” the team said.
Melanson’s absence removes a young depth forward from the Kraken group as the club moves beyond its first game of the season. No indication was given on when he could resume skating, practice with teammates or return to game action.
Young forward building NHL experience
Seattle selected Melanson in the fifth round, 131st overall, in the 2021 NHL Draft. He has appeared in 38 NHL games across three seasons, producing five points.
Last season accounted for most of that work at the NHL level. In 36 games with the Kraken, Melanson scored twice, added three assists and collected 32 penalty minutes while providing energy in a bottom-six role.
