truebluefan

The Colorado Mammoth announced today that defensemen Rich Catton and Ray Guze are recovering well following injuries in the playoff-clinching win over Edmonton on Friday night at Pepsi Center.

The ten-year veteran, Catton, sustained a Grade II - III sprain of his Medial Collateral Ligament in his right knee. Although surgery is not required, team doctors are trying a novel, biologic injection of his own platelets. This treatment, in conjunction with bracing and therapy, should expedite his recovery. His return for the May 3 playoff game in Calgary is questionable.

Fellow defenseman, Guze, underwent successful surgery Monday morning on his hand.

The Surrey, BC native broke his thumb on the second shift of Friday's game. Because of the injury, he was forced to leave the game (and had changed into street clothes) - only to change back into his uniform and return to play after Catton sustained his knee injury with 7:15 left in the second quarter. Guze played the remainder of the game using only one hand on his stick.

Doctors anticipate a full recovery for Guze and are optimistic that he will be available for the playoff game in Calgary.

Mammoth General Manager Steve Govett credits the heart of his team and ability of his coaches throughout the rash of injuries this season. "The coaches have done an outstanding job in dealing with the injuries and getting the team to respond on the floor this year. With the number of guys we've lost, I'm really proud of the way our team has come together and stepped up over the last few weeks. The win over Edmonton was huge for us."

Colorado travels to top-seeded Calgary on Sunday, May 3 for a 3pm contest with the Roughnecks. Fans can watch the game free-of-charge online at ColoradoMammoth.com. Plans are in the works for a viewing party in Denver as well. Details will be announced soon.