Tomas Vokoun out indefinitely due to blood clot in his pelvis

Goaltender Tomas Vokoun is out indefinitely due a blood clot in his pelvis, the Penguins announced minutes ago. The blood clot was revealed after today’s practice when Vokoun had swelling in his thigh and Vokoun had the procedure done this afternoon to remove the clot.

Penguins GM Ray Shero said after today’s 5-3 loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets that Vokoun will spend several days in the hospital and at this point the Penguins are unsure of how long Vokoun will be out.

“The most important thing right now is Tomas’ health and well-being,” Penguins General Manager Ray Shero said. “The clot was dissolved by the procedure, and the doctors tell us that he will remain in the hospital for several days. We will continue to monitor his progress after that.”

Here’s why this is very concerning for Vokoun:

He has dealt with blood clots in the past that almost ended his career. In the 2005-2006 season, Vokoun had back pain and in April 2006, Vokoun was diagnosed with pelvic thrombophlebitis, a rare blood condition that created a multitude of blood clots. He was on blood thinners for three months afterwards before he was cleared to practice so keep that in mind. The Penguins are not sure if this injury is related.

While the Penguins have no idea about a timetable, I’m already hearing the team feels it’s going to be a couple months for Vokoun. Vokoun is likely to open the season on LTIR, opening up cap space.

Marc Andre Fleury is now the clear No. 1 goaltender and he is having a bad camp. Shero called Fleury’s camp a “work in progress” so far.

Jeff Zatkoff moves into the No. 2 role for now.