Update (2:48 PM): Scratch that. Maybe. St. James now says Maltby’s likely to have the surgery and she has it from Holland, apparently.

Then later she says, “However, given that he needs surgery at some point, it’s just as likely he will decide to have that soon, which would make it possible for the Wings to put him on long-term injured reserve.”

So we’re not talking for sure sure, but pretty close if Holland’s claiming it’s happening. Maltby still has a choice. Or does he? Interesting…

Also, Lilja’s being cleared today or tomorrow, which means this situation’s going to break open sooner rather than later. - Matt

Looks like there won’t be a surgery in Maltby’s immediate future. He’s opting to instead take a third cortisone shot and risk those side effects. That solidifies the Wings’ cap bind, as they still have to unload $700,000 assuming Lilja’s cleared to play.

They’ve been able to get away with delaying that announcement through the Olympics, apparently, but come Monday, you have to think they’ll need to make it official one way or another.

Can’t really blame Maltby for trying to stay in the lineup rather than all but end his own career with a surgery, but this is really going to suck for someone on the roster. Doubtful the Wings will drop Maltby himself or a defenseman if they can help it, which may mean Williams’ days are in fact numbered here.

We can only hope, right?