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.”
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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