Defenseman Jani Hakanpaa made a surprising revelation regarding his potentially career-threatening knee injury. After missing the playoffs with the Dallas Stars due to the injury, Hakanpaa entered free agency and secured a deal with the Toronto Maple Leafs. PuckPedia reports that he signed a two-year contract with an average annual value of $1.5 million.

However, his injury might hinder his ability to fulfill this contract. Insider Chris Johnston mentioned on his podcast that while Hakanpaa believes he can play despite the injury, medical professionals reviewing his case have raised concerns. Johnston noted, “He believes he can play on his knee. But I don’t know that there’s unanimity in that opinion from those that are looking at his medical file and just concerns that, essentially, he’s got bone-on-bone. It’s not a situation that could be terribly comfortable. I think it really comes down to the medical opinion, how much risk the organization is willing to take. But Hakanpaa certainly seems intent on continuing his career, feels that maybe he needs some time off but will be able to play, ultimately, on that knee.

“What’s interesting about medical-related issues is some players do manage to play through certain things that others can’t. I mean, everyone’s bodies are different, pain tolerance, what have you. I guess the X-rays themselves are black and white, but sometimes the information isn’t black and white.”

At 32, Hakanpaa could be jeopardizing his NHL future if he chooses to play through the injury. He was a key defensive player for the Dallas Stars over the past three seasons, contributing limited offense with 40 points but providing a physical and defensive presence that could benefit the Maple Leafs—if he remains healthy.