Wild's Brock Faber Undergoes Surgery for Skull Fracture
Brock Faber fractured his skull in Minnesota's preseason finale against Dallas and had surgery on Sunday. General manager Bill Guerin said Faber is resting at home and doing well, but no return timeline has been set. The injury occurred when a point shot struck the left side of his head near the ear.
Minnesota's Brock Faber sustained a skull fracture when a point shot struck the left side of his head near the ear during the final preseason game against Dallas. The 24-year-old defenseman remained down briefly, then skated to the bench, took another shift, and completed the second period before sitting out the third.
He underwent surgery Sunday, and general manager Bill Guerin said Faber is recovering at home and doing well, though no return date exists. Minnesota placed him on injured reserve Monday. Last season he posted career-best totals of 15 goals and 51 points while averaging 24:41, and he was expected to partner with Quinn Hughes.
The injury could affect the Wild's on-ice performance and fan engagement, especially with Faber and Filip Gustavsson unavailable for the opener. It may also renew broader conversations about player safety, protective equipment, and head injuries in hockey. Teammates, coaches, and supporters could feel uncertainty while awaiting medical updates, though the team's emphasis on Faber's well-being may keep the focus on recovery rather than competition.