Brock Faber Returns to Minnesota Wild Practice After September Skull Injury

Defenseman Brock Faber rejoined the Minnesota Wild for practice on Thursday, marking his first session since suffering a fractured skull on Sept. 25.

Minnesota Wild defenseman Brock Faber returned to team practice on Thursday for the first time since suffering a fractured skull during a preseason game on Sept. 25. The 24-year-old was injured when a shot struck the side of his helmet near the left ear hole, eventually requiring surgery. While team doctors have cleared Faber to play, coach John Hynes stated the defenseman must improve his strength and conditioning before entering the lineup.

Faber is ruled out for Minnesota’s home games this Friday and Saturday but is expected to join the team for a road trip starting Tuesday in Montreal. Last season, Faber recorded 51 points across 80 games and ranked ninth in the NHL for total minutes played. The Wild currently lead the Central Division with 25 points and an 11-3-3 record despite several roster absences.

Captain Jared Spurgeon, who has missed seven games with a lower-body injury, is also scheduled to join the upcoming road trip. Other returning players include forwards Marcus and Nick Foligno, who have both been sidelined for a month with upper-body injuries. Goalie Filip Gustavsson is also expected to travel as he continues his recovery from hip surgery.