Trocheck out indefinitely with ankle fracture, expected to return this season

Florida Panthers forward Vincent Trocheck underwent surgery to repair a fractured ankle and will be out indefinitely, the team announced Wednesday.

General manager Dale Tallon believes Trocheck will return to the Panthers' lineup at some point this season.

"Vinny is a tremendous competitor and leader for our club," Tallon said. "It's never easy to see a player and person like him suffer an injury like this, but we are confident that he will make a full recovery and be back on the ice with our team this season."

Trocheck was injured on an awkward fall during Monday's tilt with the Ottawa Senators. He left the game on a stretcher.

Warning: Video contains graphic content

Vinny Trocheck being stretchered off the ice after this... Very tough to watch. pic.twitter.com/fVku3XaxxA

- Shayne Pasquino (@shaynepasquino) November 20, 2018

The 25-year-old has 14 points in 18 games this season, and now leaves a gaping hole at the center position on Florida's second line.

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