The Manitoba Moose aren’t expecting to get defenceman Sami Niku back anytime soon.
Niku is currently on recall with the Winnipeg Jets and will remain with the parent club.
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The Moose left the 22-year-old off their playoff roster as head coach Pascal Vincent is expecting him to stay up with the Jets for the rest of the season.
“He’s a Jet,” Vincent said.
Niku has appeared in the last eight straight games for the Jets with Dustin Byfuglien, Josh Morrissey, and Joe Morrow all nursing injuries. He has a goal and an assist with the Jets this season, but when the three players are healthy again, it’ll give the Jets 10 defencemen.
“It was a decision that was made,” Vincent said. “It’s what we do. We develop players for the Jets, and now he’s ready to make that step. So, good for him.”
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Niku had three goals and nine assists in 20 games for the Moose this season.
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The Moose are also getting thin on the blueline after it was revealed captain Peter Stoykewych will miss the next few weeks after being diagnosed with appendicitis.
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