Jets' Redmond to play in minors after laceration

Zach Redmond, who suffered a life-threatening leg laceration during practice with the Winnipeg Jets in February, has been assigned to the St. John's IceCaps of the American Hockey League on a conditioning assignment.

The Jets made the announcement Wednesday.

Redmond, a 24-year-old defenseman in his first season with the Jets, collided with teammate Antti Miettinen prior to a road game against the Carolina Hurricanes on Feb. 21. Miettinen's skate lacerated the femoral artery in Redmond's right thigh and severely damaged muscle and nerves. The injury was so severe it cast doubts whether Redmond would play again.

Redmond returned to the ice with the Jets at practice April 5, 43 days after his injury. He rehabilitated his injury at home in Michigan before returning to Winnipeg, where he continued the process.

"The reason for all of the question marks with recovery is because it never happens," Redmond said earlier this month. "Right away, they were saying 50/50 chance that I would ever play again. A week later, it was a year[-long] recovery.

"My physical therapist said that, as far as healing goes, I'm better off with this injury than an [anterior cruciate ligament] injury. They stitched the artery right away, and it's not even a concern anymore. It's as good as it will ever be. It's just a matter of getting stronger, getting my muscles back in shape."

Redmond played eight games for Winnipeg with one goal, three assists and 12 penalty minutes.

Redmond, who made his NHL debut Jan. 31, started the season with St. John's. He had 17 points (eight goals) and 32 penalty minutes in 36 AHL games. He has played 108 games for the IceCaps.

NHL.com’s Patrick Williams contributed to this story.