Tue 4 Mar 2025 - 12:00PM

BEDNARD TO RETURN HOME FOR OPERATION

Nottingham Panthers netminder Ryan Bednard will return back to North America after a setback in his recovery from his lower body injury.

The 27-year-old, who joined the Panthers in the summer, backstopped Panthers to 19 victories in 29 league and cup matches this season with three shutouts.

Panthers CEO, Omar Pacha, said: "We were optimistic that Ryan was on his way back to full fitness and he'd been back on the ice again in recent weeks.

"The rehab process was progressing and moving in the right direction. The club decided to keep Ryan off the IR as his recovery and timeline was closer to the start of March.

"Unfortunately, he suffered a setback and now Ryan is to undergo an operation on the issue. He has decided to go home to be with his family while he recovers from the operation.

"Ryan has been a quality player for us and everyone at the club thanks him for his time here this season.

"I know how much he enjoyed being here and he'll still be following the team from back home."

Bednard said: "I am so disappointed to end my season early and to be going back home.

"Thank you to the #PanthersNation for your support this season. The backing you give the team night after night is truly fantastic.

"I loved my time in Nottingham and will be following the rest of the season from home. Good luck to the boys."