Dallas Stars captain Jamie Benn had surgery in Philadelphia on Thursday to repair a 'core muscle injury and is expected to require six weeks of recovery time.  

"Jamie Benn underwent surgery to repair a core muscle injury on Thursday, July 14 at the Vincera Institute in Philadelphia, PA," said general manager Jim Nill in a team statement. "His operation, performed by Dr. Bill Meyers, went as planned. His full recovery time is expected to be six weeks, putting him on schedule to be ready for the 2016-17 season. 

"Jamie will be re-evaluated after the six-week rehabilitation process, at which time, his availability for the World Cup of Hockey will be determined." 

Benn ranked second in the NHL with 89 points last season and was third in the league with 41 goals — both career highs — in 82 games to lift the Stars to their first division title since 2005-06 as well as their first conference crown since 2002-03. He was also a finalist for the Hart Trophy as league MVP.

Benn won the Art Ross Trophy in 2014-15, tallying 87 points.