Flyers defenceman Mike Rathje is out
indefinitely because of a herniated disc in his back and will find
out next week if he needs surgery.
``I had symptoms all last season and basically I can't skate as
well as I can,'' Rathje said before the Flyers game Saturday night
against the Rangers. ``I can't shoot as well as I can, and it really
drops my play down.''
Rathje will have more tests Monday to decide if he needs surgery
or rehabilitation. Flyers trainer Jim McCrossin said surgery would
keep Rathje out about four weeks. If not, he could miss up to two
weeks.
``Our goal is for Mike to have no symptoms when he comes back,''
McCrossin said.
Rathje had three goals and 21 assists in 79 games last season.
