Flyers D Hatcher undergoes successful knee surgery

Nov 1, 2007 - 11:00 PM PHILADELPHIA (Ticker) -- Unable to step onto the ice, Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Derian Hatcher took the first step toward returning Thursday, when he underwent successful right knee surgery.

The 35-year-old Hatcher last played on Saturday in Philadelphia's 2-1 victory over Boston. He is expected to be sidelined approximately four weeks while recovering from the surgery.

"Derian Hatcher's surgery went well," Flyers general manager Paul Holmgren said. "Hatcher had a piece of cartilage removed from his right knee today in Philadelphia by Dr. Peter DeLuca. Dr. DeLuca believes that this is what was causing the disturbance in his knee. We are looking to have him back in about four weeks."

The 6-5, 235-pound Hatcher has appeared in nine games this season, recording two assists, two penalty minutes and a plus-7 rating.