Oilers owner Katz battling life-threatening condition, prognosis positive
Edmonton Oilers owner Daryl Katz has been battling a serious medical condition.
Katz has dealt with a life-threatening, bacteria-resistant sinus infection for the past few years, the club confirmed to The Canadian Press on Tuesday.
Sportsnet's John Shannon shared the details of Katz's ailment Tuesday after the owner's appearance at Ken Holland's introductory news conference caused concern.
Daryl Katz says he’s excited about the hiring of Ken Holland. Says Holland “will have full autonomy as General Manager.”. #oilers #yeg pic.twitter.com/fIxsP9kbYg
— Fletcher Kent (@FletcherKent) May 7, 2019
The infection comes with a 50-50 survival rate. The owner has undergone three surgeries over the past 10 months, with one more procedure remaining, Shannon tweeted.
Katz's condition is the primary reason he hasn't been around Edmonton and the team. He carried an IV bag at all times during the Oilers' playoff run in spring 2017, according to Shannon, who added that Katz is "through the worst of it" and the long-term prognosis is positive.
The 57-year-old billionaire didn't address his health on Tuesday. He's owned the Oilers since 2008.