We had hoped it was just a relatively minor strain or some cartilage damage, but the fears of the Flyers and Adirondack Phantoms were realized Thursday when Ben Holmstrom underwent surgery to reconstruct his ACL. The Phantoms captain will be out four to six months following the surgery, effectively ending his 2012-13 season.

Holmstrom injured his knee back on December 8 when he hit a rut in the ice against Syracuse. He's a massive piece of the puzzle for Terry Murray's club -- the captain, of course -- and one of the team's best defensive forwards. Holmstrom would have been one of the top call up options for the Flyers this season had he been available (and if the season actually happens, obviously).

A big blow, but hopefully there are no long-term complications following the surgery.