The Carolina Hurricanes announced that forward Stelio Mattheos will miss the team’s 2019 training camp as he completes treatments for testicular cancer.
Mattheos, 20, was diagnosed with testicular cancer in June, just two days after helping the Charlotte Checkers capture the Calder Cup as American Hockey League champions.
After consultation with physicians, the Winnipeg native underwent surgery to remove one testicle, and has since completed multiple courses of chemotherapy over the past two months.
Mattheos is expected to return to full health, and he looks forward to resuming his training for the 2019-20 season as soon as his treatments are complete and he receives clearance.
“I’d like to thank everyone who reached out to offer support and well wishes since the diagnosis,” said Mattheos. “I’ve had amazing support from my friends, family, teammates, coaches and all of the hockey organizations I’ve been a part of.”
The Hurricanes’ third-round selection in the 2017 NHL Draft, Mattheos joined the Checkers for the stretch run of their 2018-19 regular season and recorded three goals and an assist in 14 Calder Cup Playoff contests.