Various sources (Globe and Mail, The Sports Network, National Hockey League) have reported that Teppo Numminen is having heart problems and will require surgery. This is not the first time that Teppo has had problems with his heart as recurring murmurs almost forced him to retire back in 2004 while playing with the Dallas Stars. Numminen has had heart problems since childhood and had previously undergone 2 separate surgeries. Numminen signed on this past summer for a third season with the Buffalo Sabres after leading the team to an Eastern Conference Finals appearance in 2006’07.
Teppo is special to the contributors at Illegal Curve and is arguably the most Popular Winnipeg Jet of all time. Numminen spent 13 seasons with the Jets/Coyotes franchise and was a favourite in the local community. Numminen set the record for most games played by a European born player last year, passing fellow countrymen Jari Kurri. At the age of 39 years old, this may quite possibly be Numminen’s last year in the National Hockey League-although Chris Chelios is defying critics everywhere by playing into his late 40’s. Numminen had 29 points in 79 games last year for the Sabres and has 115 goals and 505 assists for 620 points in 1,314 career games.
We at Illegal Curve know that Teppo Numminen will be back roaming the Sabres blueline like a Prairie Bison real soon.
For Illegal Curve, I’m Ezra Ginsburg.
