Maurice fears long-term absence for Wheeler: 'It's going to be a while'

Winnipeg Jets forward Blake Wheeler was forced to exit Friday's game against the Vancouver Canucks after suffering an apparent leg injury.

Head coach Paul Maurice said postgame that "it's going to be a while" until Wheeler returns.

The Jets captain's leg appeared to bend awkwardly as he got tangled up in front of the net.

Wheeler was seen grabbing his right knee before limping off the ice and down the tunnel to the dressing room.

"We just have to hope and pray for good news," teammate Mark Scheifele said postgame.

Wheeler scored his first goal of the season on Friday. He added two assists as well, giving him 17 points in 22 games this season.