Bowness revealed that Vilardi is dealing with an enlarged spleen, requiring treatment before he can return to the lineup. Consequently, he is expected to sit out the entire upcoming five-game road trip through the Eastern Conference, with no clear timeline for his return.
The discovery of Vilardi's enlarged spleen came during his recovery process from an undisclosed upper-body injury sustained on February 29 against the Dallas Stars. According to team insider John Lu, this condition is separate from the injury that initially sidelined him at the beginning of March. Initially considered day-to-day, Vilardi's status shifted to week-to-week and now remains indefinite as the focus shifts to treating his spleen condition.
Vilardi's absence is a significant setback for the Jets, who currently hold third place in the Central Division with 87 points. With tonight's game against the Anaheim Ducks crucial in the tight race for postseason contention in the Western Conference, the Jets will have to make do without Vilardi's contributions on the ice.
