There's shouldering the blame for a disappointing season, and then there's Joel Ward.
The Sharks announced Friday that the 36 year old Ward underwent successful optional shoulder surgery and should be ready for the 2017-18 season. From the horse's mouth:
#SJSharks GM Doug Wilson confirms Joel Ward's successful surgery and that he will be back in time for the start of the season. pic.twitter.com/4qIoIPS017
— San Jose Sharks (@SanJoseSharks) May 19, 2017
Ward was seen with his right arm in a sling at the Oakland Coliseum Thursday night, prior to which the organization had given little or no indication that Ward's health status was in doubt.