Blackhawks: Hossa shoulder surgery a success

Marian Hossa, the prized free agent who signed with the Blackhawks on July 1, underwent successful shoulder surgery to repair a small tear in his right rotator cuff, team officials reported Friday.

Now the clock on the four-month recovery period begins for Hossa, who signed a 12-year deal worth $62.8 million to join the Blackhawks after leading the Detroit Red Wings to the Stanley Cup Finals.

The surgery was performed by Dr. Michael Terry, Blackhawks head team physician.

"Marian's surgery today went as well as we had hoped and he is right on track for the anticipated recovery we had planned on, which is approximately four months," Terry said.

The Blackhawks knew about Hossa's condition when they signed him, but didn't disclose the news until a Daily Herald report on Monday night was the first to reveal that the 30-year-old all-star might need surgery.

With the surgery, Hossa could miss the first 22 games of the season.