According to NBC Sports, Arizona Coyotes forward Tobias Rieder has undergone successful surgery on his ankle which will leave him sidelined likely until September. He is hopeful to recover in time for training camp, although with longer recoveries there are never total guarantees. Rieder took a modest step back in overall play this past season, even if his production did see a slight hop to 18 goals and 34 points. Mainly his defensive play took a hit along with the rest of the team, as Mike Smith was the only thing keeping the team in contention most nights.
The 24 year-old is hoping to be a key piece of the Arizona franchise going forward, and still has untapped potential. Only a third rounder in 2011, he has proven to be a dynamic force when his team has actually found offensive zone pressure. His third full season will start on a rocky note, as he will be rehabbing all summer. Rieder was playing for the German national team in the IIHF World Championships when he suffered the injury, and the Coyotes cannot be pleased with this outcome. Experience on the international stage is always useful, and Rieder was playing inspired hockey – unfortunately the injury risk was realized in his case.
Rieder is a borderline top six player who could easily solidify himself next season. He undeniably has the requisite talent and the Coyotes are strapped for offensive flair. But at 5’11” he has struggled with success in high traffic areas. He will need to add a bit of strength to his game and continue to develop his two-way game. One of Rieder’s major selling points as a prospect was his ability to also defend. But this past season saw that ability slip to a degree, with a Corsi For % of only 45.5%, admittedly against tougher competition. If he could turn into a 25 goal – 25 assist player with a balanced 200-foot game in this final deal of his contract, Arizona would be delighted to lock him up long term.