Hurricanes captain Eric Staal undergoes surgery

RALEIGH (WTVD) -- Carolina Hurricanes captain Eric Staal underwent surgery to repair a core muscle injury suffered during off-season training.

Staal is expected to make a full recovery by the start of the season, General Manager Ron Francis announced Tuesday.

"Eric notified us of the injury late last week, and flew to Raleigh and then Philadelphia to be evaluated," said Francis. "By having this procedure now, Dr. [William] Meyers believes Eric will be able to return to action for training camp and be at full health for the start of the regular season."

The 29 year old Staal is entering his 11th season with the Hurricanes.

Last season he led the team in assists and points.

Staal has served as the Hurricanes' team captain since 2010 and holds more than 20 franchise scoring records, totaling 289 goals and 399 assists in 769 career games.