Winnipeg Jets’ Dustin Byfuglien (33) handles the puck as St. Louis Blues’ Jaden Schwartz defends during the second period in Game 6 of an NHL first-round hockey playoff series, Saturday, April 20, 2019, in St. Louis. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP/Jeff Roberson)
Winnipeg Jets defenceman Dustin Byfuglien has been granted a leave of absence from the team.
The Jets didn’t provide a reason for Byfuglien’s absence, but the made the announcement Friday just prior to the start of training camp.
“I met with Buff yesterday and we had some conversations and in the conversations, he indicated that he needed some personal time,” Jets general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff said.
“We certainly granted it. Dustin is a big part of our family here. There’s always an open policy for discussions. We always care about people of our family. One thing I will say, health-wise, everything is good for him and his family. But again, from our standpoint, we support Dustin and look forward to the resolution.”
The 34-year-old had four goals and 27 assists in 42 games last season.
Byfuglien has played 869 career NHL games.
— With files from The Canadian Press
