Top Blue Jackets prospect Ryan Murray out for season with shoulder injury

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Ryan Murray is expected to miss the rest of the season with a shoulder injury, delivering a blow to Canada's world junior team.

The 19-year-old Everett Silvertips captain suffered a torn labrum in his left shoulder after taking a hit while playing Victoria on Nov. 16. On Tuesday, it was revealed the injury will require surgery that will sideline Murray for six months.

The defenceman was the second overall pick of the Columbus Blue Jackets earlier this year and was expected to challenge for a spot on the NHL team as soon as the lockout ended.

He had two goals and 17 points in 23 games for the Silvertips this season.

Murray represented Canada at last year's world junior championship and would likely have been a key member of the team that competes in Ufa, Russia next month.

He also became the second-youngest Canadian ever to play at the IIHF World Hockey Championship in May.