UND’s Josh Zakreski Undergoes Successful Surgery on Injured Leg

Josh Zakreski, a forward for the University of North Dakota (UND), underwent successful surgery on October 3, 2023, following a lower-body injury sustained during practice the previous week. Coach Dane Jackson indicated that Zakreski’s recovery will likely extend over the next couple of months.

“Obviously, we’re all pulling for him, but he’s going to have a lengthy rehab,” Jackson stated. “We know he’ll work hard at it. It’s going to be a while, but he’s going to have a good attitude and he’ll have all the best care.”

Zakreski’s Impact on the Team

Before his injury, Zakreski had been enjoying a strong start to his freshman season, contributing significantly to the Fighting Hawks’ early games. The winger from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, scored a goal and provided three points over six games, maintaining a plus-3 rating. His performance earned him a position on the right wing alongside Ellis Rickwood during the team’s recent split against Clarkson University.

Zakreski was expected to retain that spot for a home series against Minnesota Duluth last weekend. Unfortunately, he was injured near the end of practice on Thursday, leading to adjustments in the lineup.

Team Adjustments and Future Matches

In Zakreski’s absence, the coaching staff shifted freshman forward Jack Kernan to Rickwood’s wing. Kernan made a notable impact during Friday night’s match, assisting on a key goal in a closely contested 4-3 overtime loss to the Bulldogs. The team rebounded in the series finale, winning decisively with a score of 5-1.

“I thought his pace was really good,” Jackson remarked about Kernan’s performance. “I noticed him driving the net. He had some great backchecks, some great pressure on forechecks. I thought he was playing a lot more direct, a lot more inside. I thought he was a real positive and did a great job. That’s the response we’re looking for.”

Looking ahead, the No. 8 Fighting Hawks are set to face Omaha this weekend. The matches will take place at the Baxter Arena at 19:00 on both Friday and Saturday. Fans can tune in via radio at The Fox (96.1 FM) or stream the games on NCHChockey.com.