Ice Hockey: Gretzky facing a long spell on the sidelines
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.(First Edition)
WAYNE GRETZKY, the most famous name in American ice hockey, will be out of action indefinitely because of a serious back problem - a herniated disc - but the Los Angeles Kings centre has not abandoned hope of returning to the ice.
Gretzky said that he had been suffering from an 'excruciatingly painful' upper back problem, but that the pain had subsided. The leading scorer in National Hockey League history was hospitalised last Tuesday because of chest pains caused by the injury.
Dr Robert Watkins told the news conference that Gretzky's injury was a herniated thoracic disc, which was intruding into his upper spine. He said there was no injury to the spine. Watkins said he has recommended intensive pain-killing medication for Gretzky, and that once the pain was gone he would undergo physical therapy.
'We are quite optimistic that Wayne can certainly have an excellent chance of recovery from his injury. There is the possibility that he can return this year, but there is no guarantee,' he said.
Bruce McNall, the Kings' owner, remained optimistic. 'I don't think it will be the end and I hope it isn't,' he said. 'From a franchise point of view you can't replace Wayne Gretzky, but it isn't a one-man sport. We hope to remain very competitive.
'Everyone says 'What will happen when Wayne retires?' Now we will find out, for a few months, or however long it is.'
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments