Abdelkader will not need arthroscopic surgery on his knee, but doctors have recommended that he not play in the World Championship, MLive.com reports.

EDGE Analysis

According to this report, Abdelkader wished to play in the international tournament, but evidently the stipulation behind avoiding surgery was that he'd need to rest the ailing knee. You aren't likely to hear any complaints from Red Wings GM Ken Holland concerning Abdelkader's omission from Worlds, as the two-way forward is locked up for six more seasons and costing the team $4.25 million annually. Abdelkader only produced seven goals and 14 assists in 64 games this season while struggling to a minus-20 rating. Detroit's club being perpetually banged up certainly had a negative effect on the winger's overall numbers when he was able to play himself.