BSN Exclusive: A top Avs prospect remains concussed, but agent says not to worry

The grim word came early from the Avalanche today:

Conor Timmins, the team’s highly-prized, 2017 second-round draft choice who was a standout for Team Canada in a World Junior championship, is out indefinitely with concussion symptoms.

Many hardcore Avalanche fans proceeded to lift their index fingers and place it firmly on the Panic Button. Avalanche assistant general manager Craig Billington, after all, said there was “no timetable” on a potential return. More panic.

Don’t panic, says Timmins’ agent, Anton Thun.

“This is not something to get overly worried about,” Thun said, in an interview with BSN Denver. “Conor is actually progressing well.”

Timmins, a defenseman who turns 20 later this month, did not skate with the rest of the Avs’ rookies Friday at Family Sports Center. He suffered a concussion in March while playing for the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds, and while he has been skating off and on since – including recently – a physical examination with the team on Friday made it clear to the Avalanche that symptoms remain.

Thun, however, downplayed any long-term worry over his health.

“It’s in the best interest of the Colorado Avalanche to not rush anything like this, and in the interest of Conor Timmins,” Thun said. “He’s 19. He’s going to have a long career. What’s more important, rushing him back for a day of rookie camp, or making sure things are good for his health long term?”

Thun said, as did Billington, that Timmins has made “good progress” of late with his symptoms. But concussions, as we all know, are tricky things.

The Avs’ rookies will depart for Las Vegas later Friday, to participate in a Rookie Showcase tournament. Timmins is unlikely to participate.