Calgary Flames prospect Sam Bennett could be heading for surgery.

According to TSN Hockey Insider Bob McKenzie, it's more likely than not that the first-round pick will undergo shoulder surgery. If that's the case, the Flames centre will be out for months. 

No surgery is still a possibility for Bennett, opting instead for rest and rehab. Flames general manager Brad Treliving says that treatment has yet to be determined and surgery hasn't been ruled out.

Bennett suffered the injury during the Flames' pre-season, but has also battled through shoulder issues much of last season with the Ontario Hockey League's Kingston Frontenacs.

No matter what the Flames and Bennett decide, the 18-year-old will be out for a lengthy period of time and likely won't be considered for Canada's World Junior team.

The Flames drafted Bennett fourth overall in this year's NHL draft, making him the highest selection in franchise history.

Bennett had two assists in three pre-season games.