The New York Islanders announced on Tuesday that post-surgical knee issues will sideline goalie Rick DiPietro for the rest of the season.
"After extensive consultation we feel this decision is in the best interest for Rick and the team," said Islanders General Manager Garth Snow in a press release. "This will allow Rick ample time to make a full recovery for next year."
DiPietro, who has only played in five games this season, has had three operations over the past year, including hip surgery last March and arthroscopic knee surgery in October to repair a torn meniscus.
It's the swelling in the knee as a result of that surgery that has been most troublesome for the 27-year old, according to the team.
After missing 27 games this season following knee surgery, he returned on December 26 and played just twice before being sidelined due to injury again.
"This has been one of the most frustrating situations I have ever had to deal with, but this is the right decision for me and the team," said DiPietro in the release. "I am confident this will allow me to make a complete recovery, be ready in plenty of time for next season and compete to my highest ability for many years to come. I'd like to thank Islanders fans for their patience and I look forward to playing in front of them next season."
Last season, he underwent hip surgery in March which spelled the end of his campaign.
He is currently in the third year of a 15-year contract worth $67.5 million.
